Local Elections Must Address Regional Survival, Not Just Political Victory

The nationwide local elections scheduled for June 3, 2026, are not merely a political event. This election represents a critical turning point that will determine whether local governance can maintain the institutions and capabilities to function, or whether it will enter structural decline unable to halt the trend of regional extinction.

The reality facing local regions has already surpassed crisis levels. According to the Korea Employment Information Service's regional extinction risk index, 118 of the nation's 228 basic local governments—more than half—are classified as at-risk areas. This figure has nearly quadrupled over 20 years, from just 33 areas in 2005. More alarming is that even in metropolitan cities like Busan, the proportion of at-risk districts exceeds 40%. Regional extinction is no longer confined to rural areas or counties; it has spread to become a problem affecting Korea's entire regional structure.

Demographic changes are simultaneously pressuring both fiscal capacity and administrative capabilities. According to Statistics Korea's population projections, the nation's total population will decline to approximately 36.22 million by 2072, while the capital region's share will actually rise to 53%. Non-capital regions, meanwhile, will face difficulties maintaining even basic administrative services due to rapid population outflows and aging. Under these conditions, fundamental questions must be asked about whether the current local governance structure is sustainable.

The problem lies in the fact that despite 30 years of local autonomy history, "substantive self-governance" has not been achieved. While decentralization has expanded institutionally, the actual situation on the ground has repeatedly featured limited authority paired with increased responsibilities. As of 2025, the average fiscal independence rate for local governments stands at just 48.6%, with basic local governments falling below 30%. The ratio of national to local taxes remains at 8:2, significantly lower than the 5:5 level seen in major OECD countries. Demanding creativity and results from local governments under these conditions approaches structural contradiction.

Therefore, this June 3 local election should not simply ask "who will become the local government head," but rather how to redesign the authority and role of local governments. While discussions of administrative district consolidation are emerging in various places, simple regional mergers alone cannot overcome regional extinction. What matters is a structure where metropolitan and basic governments cooperate functionally, and where basic governments possess the capability to plan and execute on their own. What is needed is not a strong central government, but strong local governments that can take responsibility.

Furthermore, the substantive expansion of legislative and fiscal autonomy for local governments is a task that can no longer be postponed. Responsible administration cannot be expected when only duties are delegated without accompanying financial resources. Bold decisions are needed to transfer both authority and finances so that local governments can design and implement policies directly affecting residents' lives. This is not about giving preferential treatment to local regions, but an investment to enhance the sustainability of the entire nation.

The quality of local politics is also a core issue in this election. As long as local elections remain an extension of central politics and nomination competitions overshadow policy competition, voters' choices will inevitably be distorted. In reality, with the two major parties occupying most local council seats, diverse regional voices are not being adequately represented. For local autonomy to function as grassroots democracy, examination of the entire electoral system and political practices is also necessary.

Above all, the value this election must emphasize is "responsible administration." According to May 2025 data from the Korea Manifesto Practice Headquarters, the pledge fulfillment rate for elected local government heads in their eighth term stands at around 70%. The issue is not the numbers but the substance. Pledge fulfillment that residents cannot feel is merely administrative self-satisfaction. Trust in local governments can be restored when policy design based on data, transparent disclosure of implementation processes, and resident-participatory performance evaluation become institutionalized.

The June 3 local elections may be the last golden opportunity to build upon the achievements of 30 years of local autonomy while advancing beyond superficial decentralization toward substantive self-governance. Voters must also make choices based on policy capability and accountability, not party affiliation or slogans. The future of local regions will not be created by the central government on their behalf. I hope this election becomes a turning point that allows local regions to breathe again.