Will Special Cities Change Dramatically? Special Law Passes, Transferring Significant Powers from Metropolitan Governments

The recent passage of the 'Special Act on Support for Special Cities' in South Korea marks a pivotal moment for its largest municipalities, those with populations exceeding one million. After four years of legislative efforts, these 'Special Cities' – including Suwon, Yongin, Goyang, Hwaseong, and Changwon – will finally see a substantial devolution of administrative powers from provincial governments. This legislative victory promises tangible changes for citizens, primarily through increased administrative speed and improvements in daily life.

“

The most noticeable change will be the speed and improvement of environment closely related to life.

One of the most significant impacts will be the streamlining of approvals for large-scale construction projects. Previously, buildings exceeding 51 stories or with a total floor area of over 200,000 square meters required approval from provincial governments, a process often bogged down by complex negotiations and delays. With the new law, these crucial permitting powers are transferred to the Special City mayors. This is expected to accelerate the development of landmark projects and attract large commercial facilities, fostering economic growth and job creation within these urban centers.

Furthermore, the Special Cities will gain greater autonomy in developing and managing green spaces, such as arboretums and gardens, which were previously under provincial jurisdiction. The law also empowers these cities to more swiftly implement policies related to large industrial complexes and development projects, bypassing the intricate approval processes of central and provincial governments. This enhanced administrative and financial authority is designed to enable more agile and responsive urban planning.

“

This is expected to create a virtuous cycle that leads to regional economic revitalization and job creation by enabling rapid progress in the construction of local landmarks and the attraction of large-scale commercial facilities.

From a South Korean perspective, this law addresses a long-standing imbalance between the administrative demands placed on megacities and the authority granted to them. The ability for Special Cities to directly request improvements to metropolitan-wide transportation systems is a crucial step towards alleviating the daily "commute war" faced by millions. Moreover, the provision allowing direct negotiation with the central government for national projects and funding bypasses the provincial layer, potentially leading to more efficient resource allocation and project implementation. While the law is a significant achievement, the focus now shifts to its effective implementation and ensuring that these newly acquired powers translate into real benefits for the citizens of Special Cities.

“

The system is not completed by 'implication' alone. The process of making it actually work, supplementing the deficiencies, and connecting it to the improvement of citizens' lives must go hand in hand.