Urban Dynamics in Northeast Asia and the Future of Korean Cities

This paper attempts at analyzing the urban dynamics in Northeast Asia by looking at major forces transforming the regional structure of Northeast Asia. Trade and foreign direct invest-ment are identified as two principal channels of increasing economic interdependence in the region. In addition, macro development strategy and infrastructure policy are another set of determining factors for changes in the regional structure of Northeast Asia. To examine the role of cities and inter-city linkages, the paper first tries to identify major urban centers and urban hierarchy in Northeast Asia. Secondly, it examines the prospects for inter-city network formation. Against these anticipated changes in the regional structure and inter-city networks in Northeast Asia, the paper discusses about the future of Korea as well as the role of Koran cities in the regional economy of Northeast Asia.