This is a study that examines the realities of korean local governments international exchange programs. It finds problems and comes up with suggestions for future solutions. The study identifies three main elements for the successful outcomes of inte...
This is a study that examines the realities of korean local governments international exchange programs. It finds problems and comes up with suggestions for future solutions. The study identifies three main elements for the successful outcomes of international exchange programs: systems that support exchange programs, the uniqueness of exchange programs, and the efficiency of the exchange program process. These main variables are used for the analysis of the study. The main research methods used in this study are review and analysis of local government reports and cases, and an administering survey and interview with Daegu City officials.
The results of this study are as follows. First, in terms of systems that support exchange programs, although there is a top level support, long term master plans are deficient and funding is also insufficient. In addition, the study shows that there is a lack of public participation in the process of planning, implementation, and evaluation of exchange programs. Second, in terms of the uniqueness of exchange programs, local government exchange programs are evaluated positively in all of the component sub-variables, but it needs to be improved to ensure the continuous success of exchange programs. Third, in terms of the efficiency of the exchange program process, the results of this analysis indicate that exchange programs are not well-planned schedule-wise and are not evaluated properly in terms of problem identification and solutions. In addition, the officials who are dealing with exchange programs do not have the proper expertise and incentive to work effectively.
Finally, the study suggests several policy recommendations. First, there should be a clear vision and road-map for exchange programs, which are prepared through a participative process. The public and low- ranking exchange program staff should participate in the process. Broadening the participative base is recommended. Thus far, international exchange programs have been organized by few high-ranking individuals. Second, Korean local government exchange programs demonstrate little variation. In short, they appear very similar. In the future, local governments need to reflect regional uniqueness in designing exchange programs. Regional identity should be seriously considered when putting programs together. In addition, the study suggests that exchange programs should be implemented through partnership between local government and the public. Lastly, the results of this study suggest that exchange programs need to be thoroughly evaluated in terms of the entire process. This evaluation needs to examine whether exchange programs are well-planned, involve consultation with the public, are properly funded and staffed, and produce effective outcomes.