South Korean counties compete to host new correctional facilities

Local governments in South Korea are competing to host new correctional facilities to combat regional extinction and stimulate local economies. The Ministry of Justice plans to establish four new facilities nationwide to address aging and overcrowded prisons, with each site intended to house approximately 1,000 inmates and employ about 250 staff members.

In the Gyeongsangbuk-do region, four counties—Yeongdeok, Yeongyang, Uiseong, and Cheongsong—have entered the competition. These areas, all with populations under 50,000, view the facilities as a way to attract permanent residents and increase local spending through the employment of local talent and the procurement of regional agricultural products.

Other regions, including Jecheon and Boeun in Chungcheongbuk-do and Jeongseon in Gangwon-do, are also vying for the sites. The Ministry of Justice is expected to review proposals and select the final locations by December, with a target completion date of December 2034.