인구감소시대 지역격차인식과 정주지속성: 인구감소지역과 비인구감소지역의 결정요인 비교분석

Abstract

This study addresses growing concerns that recent policy responses to local shrinkage and population decline have intensified competition among municipalities, primarily by focusing on attracting young adults and return migrants. Instead, this research highlights the importance of exploring alternative strategies that prioritize retaining current residents and sustaining local communities. Based on a comprehensive review and meta-analysis of prior studies, the research identifies key factors associated with residents’ willingness to remain in their communities. Using data from the 2022 Chungnam Social Survey and applying Generalized Additive Models for Location, Scale, and Shape (GAMLSS), the study compares the determinants of residential continuity in both depopulating and non-depopulating areas. The analysis demonstrates that satisfaction with housing conditions, access to natural environments, perceived safety, availability of cultural and recreational amenities, strong social relationships, and the quality of local government services are all significantly associated with residents’ intentions to stay. Notably, perceptions of regional inequality show a significant negative association with residential continuity, particularly among individuals in their 20s and 30s living in depopulating areas. This finding underscores the urgent need to address perceived regional disparities in order to stem youth outmigration and promote sustainable local development. Overall, the study highlights the necessity of age- and region-sensitive policy interventions that not only enhance the physical environment and social cohesion but also actively reduce perceived inequalities, thereby offering a more comprehensive approach to addressing population decline.