Incheon researchers propose human-centered cultural ecosystem for Jemulpo-gu

The Incheon Institute has proposed a new policy roadmap to establish a sustainable cultural ecosystem for the upcoming Jemulpo-gu, formed by the merger of Incheon's Jung-gu and Dong-gu districts. The research suggests shifting the policy focus from physical infrastructure and one-off events toward nurturing human resources, content, and local networks.

Analysis shows that while the former Jung-gu district had the highest cultural event participation rate in Incheon at 69.1%, its regional culture index dropped significantly from 0.506 in 2017 to -0.104 in 2023. This indicates a gap between cultural activities and actual resource accumulation or resident enjoyment. Meanwhile, the former Dong-gu district has struggled with low cultural enjoyment indicators and a lack of intermediary institutions, such as local cultural foundations, to plan and connect programs.

To prevent widening cultural gaps during the administrative merger, researchers recommend fostering creators and cultural planners while strengthening cooperation between residents and local organizations. The proposed vision, ‘an old downtown people want to stay in by connecting people and culture,’ aims to create a virtuous cycle of creation, planning, and enjoyment.