The 5th Community Social Security Plan: Analysis of Its Direction and Components

Abstract

The year 2023 marks the first year of the implementation of the 5th Community Social Security Plan (2023-2026). This study explores the current state of the 5th Plan, including its action items as established by Korea’s 17 metropolitan cities and provinces, and presents potential improvement options. Our analysis reveals that the new additions to the 5th Plan, such as “strategies for balanced regional development” and “governance framework,” are adequately thrashed out. A clear indication emerged that significant efforts were made by the metropolitan municipalities to align their action plans with the objectives of the 5th Plan. However, for some municipalities, there is a lack of logical connection between the goals and the strategic framework, between the strategic framework and the subprojects, and between the proposed projects and their rationale, as well as a lack of logical coherence for their performance indicators and target goals. This study recommends that the central government support local governments in strengthening the capacity of local officials involved in the implementation of the Plan. Additionally, the central government needs to provide targeted support and coordination to enhance the connection between the 5th Community Social Security Plan and the 3rd Social Security Masterplan.