○ Gyeonggi Research Institute (GRI) publishes “Study on Strategies for the Revitalization of Local Diplomacy in Korea”
○ Key takeaway: Strengthening networks for mutual cooperation with the international community
○ Customized policies should be implemented by diversifying participants and engagement methods

Decentralization progress and changes in the international landscape have led to a diversification and expansion of diplomatic actors, extending beyond the central government to include local governments, businesses, and civil society. In response, experts emphasize the need to broaden the scope of diplomacy, focusing on non-traditional security issues and soft power.

On February 13, the Gyeonggi Research Institute (GRI) announced the publication of its report, Study on Strategies for the Revitalization of Local Diplomacy in Korea, aimed at strengthening local governments’ diplomatic capabilities and establishing a foundation for international cooperation.

According to the report, in today’s global environment—where strengthening international networks and increasing international responsibility are essential—local governments must establish themselves as independent diplomatic entities and expand their diplomatic agenda and influence.

The report emphasizes that the international community is facing more immediate and direct challenges, such as economic crises, resource depletion, climate change, environmental pollution, natural disasters, pandemics, international crime, terrorism, and cybersecurity threats. As such, relying solely on traditional, central government-led diplomacy is inadequate.

To develop strategies for revitalizing local diplomacy, the researchers analyzed data from 20,673 international exchanges by regional and municipal governments from 2004 to 2023. This data informed multifaceted proposals for revitalizing local diplomacy in Korea and provided specific implementation measures. The study also examines local diplomacy case studies from Japan and China, identifying trends in exchange patterns, frequency, and programs that offer lessons for Korea.

The report suggests three key strategies to strengthen Korea’s local diplomacy: developing and advancing a diplomatic strategy based on Korea’s cultural strengths; enhancing global cooperation networks for mutual growth; and diversifying diplomatic participants and engagement methods. It also proposes that local governments establish tailored diplomatic strategies through benchmarking, differentiation, and branding. Additionally, it calls for legal and institutional support to enhance policy and financial collaboration with the central government.

“There are differing views among academics and policymakers regarding the concept of ‘local diplomacy,’ but building consensus is essential to addressing key challenges like sustainable economic development, global issues, and regional depopulation,” said Kim Sang-gyu, a research fellow at GRI. “An urgent shift in perceptions on the importance, necessity, and direction of local diplomacy is needed, along with discussions on institutional support and promotion.”