CRI

 [ABSTRACT]

The Central Inland region has played a vital role in national environmental security through its mountain, water, and forest resources, yet it has

experienced long-term infrastructure shortages, population decline, and economic stagnation due to excessive regulation and geographical 

fragmentation. As the concentration in the Seoul metropolitan area intensifies and the limitations of coastal-oriented development strategies become 

evident, the strategic importance of the Central Inland region as a new paradigm for balanced national development has gained renewed attention.

 This study analyzes the demographic, industrial, and fiscal conditions of the Central Inland Linked Cooperation Region, established under the

Special Act on Support for Central Inland Linked Development Regions, and examines its fiscal relationship with the central government.

The findings indicate high aging rates, widespread population decline, and significant regional disparities in GRDP and fiscal self-

reliance, highlighting the urgent need for strengthened central government fiscal support.

 Accordingly, the study proposes key roles for local public finance, including securing national subsidies under the Special Act, actively utilizing 

intergovernmental transfers, and promoting integrated, region-based projects linked to the Special Account for Balanced National Development.

By aligning with the 5 Poles–3 Special Zones National Balanced Growth Strategy, the study emphasizes strengthening regional autonomy and 

accountability through preferential budgeting, expanded block grants, and performance-based fiscal support, positioning the Central Inland region as 

a leading axis of balanced national growth.