This study empirically examines the effectiveness and limitations of the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s Housing Upgrading Support Program for Vulnerable Residents, focusing on its implementation in Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, and proposes directions for ...
This study empirically examines the effectiveness and limitations of the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s Housing Upgrading Support Program for Vulnerable Residents, focusing on its implementation in Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, and proposes directions for future policy enhancement. To achieve this, a mixed-methods design was employed, combining a survey of 77 Seoul residents with in-depth interviews conducted with public officials in Dongdaemun-gu who are directly responsible for programme implementation. Logistic regression analysis revealed that perceptions of the policy’s necessity and importance, as well as recognition of government accountability, significantly influence policy awareness. The interviews identified several structural and operational challenges, including insufficient dedicated personnel and budget, limited housing supply, short-term support approaches, and declining community acceptance. Based on these findings, this study proposes practical measures such as expanding dedicated staffing, establishing long-term and integrated support systems, increasing housing supply, ensuring equitable allocation, and fostering community governance. By empirically linking policy awareness with perceptions of social value, the study contributes to the sustainability of housing welfare policy and offers actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners engaged in housing support for vulnerable populations.