Paju City Enacts Nation's First "Cultural Impact Assessment Ordinance" Among Local Governments

Enhancing Quality of Life for Citizens
by Adding a Cultural Perspective to Policy

At the 258th temporary session of the Paju City Council held on September 10, the "Paju City Cultural Impact Assessment Ordinance" was passed.

Paju City Hall view. Provided by Paju City

The "cultural impact assessment" is a system that analyzes and evaluates the impact of various plans and policies on citizens' lives from a cultural perspective, and ensures that the results are reflected in policymaking.

This ordinance is based on the higher-level "Framework Act on Culture" and is particularly significant as it is the first of its kind to be enacted among basic local governments nationwide.

The ordinance specifically outlines the purpose and definition of the cultural impact assessment, the responsibilities of the mayor, the subjects of assessment and the establishment of implementation plans, considerations during the assessment, the reflection of results in policy, related education, and the designation of dedicated staff.

Accordingly, Paju City plans to conduct cultural impact assessments on major policies directly related to the quality of life of its citizens and will strive to ensure that the results of these assessments are sufficiently reflected in budget allocations. To ensure the professionalism and sustainability of the system, the city will also designate dedicated personnel and systematically provide related training.

Kim Kyoungil, Mayor of Paju, stated, "Starting in 2026, we plan to conduct cultural impact assessments focusing on culture-related projects," adding, "We will work to establish this system so that a cultural perspective is naturally incorporated into the policymaking process." He further expressed, "I hope that the enactment of this ordinance will provide tangible benefits in improving the quality of life for our citizens."