In the present age of localization, the specialization of localities and local residents’ right to know are considered highly important. Such demands are particularly strong in local governments that establish a close relation with local residents. ...
In the present age of localization, the specialization of localities and local residents’ right to know are considered highly important. Such demands are particularly strong in local governments that establish a close relation with local residents. A method of satisfying these demands is the establishment and operation of the archives. Korea has 215 local governments and the scale of operation varies among the governments. Therefore, archives established and operated under the local governments are also diverse. The objective of the present study was to propose establishment models of archives suitable for local governments. For this purpose, first, we analyzed the characteristics and functions of archives in local governments based on the Public Records and Archives Management Act. Second, we classified local governments, which are the parent organizations of archives, into large cities with a population of over 500,000, small and medium cities and counties, and self governing wards, and defined them based on the Local Autonomy Act and relevant laws. In addition, we derived the correlation between the classification and definition and records and archives management. Third, in order to help each local government establish the adequate archives, we suggested a number of establishment models. In addition, for testing the models, Yongin City, Yeoju County and Gangnam Ward were sampled according to the classification and definition of large cities with a population of over 500,000, small and medium cities and counties, and self‐governing wards.