The purpose of this study is to analyze the diverse perceptions of stakeholders in peri-urban areas of the Seoul metropolitan region, provide structure in regard to the differences in landscape perception based on local contexts, and derive implicatio...
The purpose of this study is to analyze the diverse perceptions of stakeholders in peri-urban areas of the Seoul metropolitan region, provide structure in regard to the differences in landscape perception based on local contexts, and derive implications for natural landscape management in these areas. To achieve this, the study highlights the value orientations and perception values of stakeholders who play a central role in interpreting landscapes.
The research adopts a comprehensive approach, integrating physical, policy-driven, and empirical dimensions of natural landscapes as key factors influencing stakeholder perceptions. Through Q-methodology, this study systematically analyzes differences in empirically perceived values and proposes adaptive and intervention-focused strategies for managing peri-urban landscapes in the Seoul metropolitan region.
The theoretical framework defines the characteristics of peri-urban areas and synthesizes key landscape concepts, the scope of landscape assessment, and existing methodologies. This provides a solid foundation for addressing the complexities of landscape perception and management. As landscapes are the outcome of dynamic interactions between humans and their environment, the study underscores the necessity of integrating analyses of the physical attributes of landscapes with nuanced interpretations of human perceptions in order to achieve a comprehensive understanding of landscape dynamics. This study categorized applicable assessment methods into three dimensions: Landscape Character Assessment (assessment of physical landscape characteristics), Evaluation (experience-based analysis of perception), and Appraisal (interpretation of perception). By synthesizing these dimensions, the research establishes a comprehensive approach to landscape perception assessment and proposes a process that reflects these dimensions and applies it through the assessments conducted in each chapter of the study.
In the first study, a normalized naturalness index was developed to assess the current naturalness levels of landscapes across the Seoul metropolitan area. Natural landscape changes were categorized into five levels based on the degree of human intervention and evaluated at the municipal level. Among these, Gyeonggi Province's Icheon City was selected as the empirical study site, considering its geographical specificity, representativeness, and research feasibility as a "transition zone" where landscape changes are actively occurring.
The second study conducted a review of higher-level plans and policies at the municipal level in Icheon City, Gyeonggi Province, and analyzed socio-cultural factors that could not be explained solely through physical naturalness assessments. Additionally, a natural landscape resource dictionary for Icheon City was constructed, and public perceptions of peri-urban natural landscapes were analyzed using Naver blog data to capture a macro-level understanding. By analyzing user-generated data, the study identified the centrality and relationships of Icheon’s natural landscape resources, as well as the hierarchical structure of landscape resources within the region. Additionally, an analysis of topics related to the natural landscapes of Icheon was conducted using LDA topic modeling. The results revealed conflicting relationships among key themes that represent the phenomenon of landscape fragmentation in peri-urban areas, such as “residential housing complexes,” “logistics warehouses,” and “environmental restoration projects.” Furthermore, notable differences were identified in the acceptability of approaches to natural landscape enjoyment and management between stakeholders and suppliers. A comprehensive review was subsequently conducted to analyze patterns of change within the region.
The third study focused on the Sindun-myeon and Baeksa-myeon areas that were identified in the second study as experiencing significant landscape fragmentation and high user-perceived value, leading to pronounced conflicts. Through in-depth interviews and Q-methodology, the study examined the perceived values of natural landscapes as understood by local stakeholders, offering insights into peri-urban challenges by interpreting regional contexts and user-based value distinctions.
The content analysis of the in-depth interviews revealed that users perceive natural landscapes positively as spaces that foster sensory and perceptual harmony, as foundations for social and cultural activities, and as providers of psychological stability and restorative benefits. However, negative perceptions emerged regarding issues such as the risks of uncontrolled development linked to peri-urbanization, conflicts between agricultural productivity and land commodification, and demands for preserving basic living standards and quality of life.
Based on these findings, statements derived from the interviews were organized and analyzed using Q-methodology to classify user value groups. This process culminated in the development of a decision-making model for peri-urban natural landscapes which would highlight the diversity of user perspectives and offer a structured framework for resolving conflicts and guiding future management strategies. This model is structured around three axes: Environmental Conservation, Resource Utilization, and Support for Development and Transformation, which reflect the diverse value orientations of stakeholders.
The Environmental Conservation Group prioritizes intrinsic and community-oriented values and advocates for the preservation of natural and ecological integrity. In contrast, the Development and Transformation Support Group focuses on resource capitalization and enhancing economic value through development initiatives. Positioned between these two groups, the Resource Utilization Group represents a mediating perspective that seeks to balance efficient resource use with cultural and environmental conservation. This model highlights the need for integrative management strategies that accommodate the multidimensional value systems that are present in peri-urban areas.
The findings highlight the need for diversified landscape management strategies that respect the multi-layered value systems of these groups. Unlike binary approaches that emphasize either conservation or development, the Resource Utilization Group represents a mediative perspective that integrates both priorities. This finding underscores the necessity of incorporating the multi-dimensional value orientations of stakeholders into landscape management strategies.
The study found that the variations in perceptions of natural landscape values among groups in peri-urban areas underscore the inadequacy of a single-perspective approach to the management of peri-urban natural landscapes. Furthermore, the value orientations of these groups exhibited spatial variation even within the same administrative region, depending on the specific village. These results illustrate the influence of landscape fragmentation in peri-urban areas on local communities and emphasize the intricate relationship between spatial contexts and perceptual frameworks.
This study stresses the limitations of uniform management strategies for natural landscapes in peri-urban areas and advocates for flexible frameworks that reflect user perceptions and local contexts. By expanding perspectives beyond the dichotomy of conservation versus development, the research emphasizes the need for strategies that harmonize social consensus with environmental sustainability. These findings provide a foundational reference for the management of natural landscapes in peri-urban areas and serve as a basis for enhancing inclusivity and rationality in future policies.