The Journal of Culture Contents 문화콘텐츠연구 ISSN:2287-2256(Print) 2671-7026(Online)

This study utilized the difference-in-differences method to analyze the effect of cultural city designation on visitor inflow. Data were collected from 32 local governments designated as cultural cities, and the effects were estimated using two-way fixed effects and event study methods. The main findings are as follows:
Firstly, no significant effect on the inflow of local and foreign visitors was observed following the cultural city designation. Since cultural cities aim to uncover unique cultural resources and foster urban cultures for citizens’ enjoyment, the lack of noticeable policy effects on the both locals’ and visitors’ movements suggests that the cultural city initiatives might not have been effectively implemented among the general populace. This indicates potential issues with linkage and scalability. Secondly, no significant increase in tourist numbers at tourist sites was found. Although the cultural city initiative is not directly aimed at boosting tourism, the inflow of transient populations such as tourists should be considered an important outcome. This is because visitors to cultural heritage sites or cultural institutions, representing local cultural resources, are counted as tourists if they come from outside the region. This aspect is particularly crucial in areas facing population decline, where the cultural city project could potentially serve as a catalyst for regional revitalization. The lack of observed effects on the inflow of transient populations warrants a thorough review for improvements.
The policy implications suggest that the success metrics of cultural city initiatives should primarily be aligned with officially recognized statistics. These statistics offer reliability and allow for the quantitative analysis of their impacts. It’s also recommended that projects aimed at developing cultural professionals incorporate certified professional training programs to enhance their effectiveness. Additionally, educational programs should extend beyond project conclusion and satisfaction assessments to include comprehensive evaluations of impacts, such as opportunity cost savings, application of learned content, and employment linkages. This approach facilitates easier goal setting and evaluation.
Limitations of this study include its focus solely on the visitor effect and the inability to explore the nuanced differences among cultural cities, partly due to data accessibility constraints. Future research could benefit from analyzing outcomes specific to regional projects or comparing performances across different cohorts or regions.