Strategies for the Efficient Management of the Port Authority System in Korea: Focused on Incheon Port Authority

항만공사제도의 효율적 운영방안 - 인천항만공사를 중심으로 -

In order to improve inefficient and unproductive factors and in response to criticisms of the failure in harbor privatization introduced in 1997, the Korean government introduced the Port Authority system, which is commonly adopted in advanced harbors in the world. This research examined the theoretical background of harbor management system and various cases of harbor management in foreign countries. The desirable introduction of Port Authority system must be preceded by the settlement of problems in harbor structure and operation. In addition, the Port Authority Act, which restricts the autonomy of harbor corporations, should be improved for user-centered Port Authority system. Strategies for the successful introduction of Incheon Port Authority are as follows. Firstly it is required to establish consumer-centered harbor operation system. The second requirement is to activate the harbor logistics industry through the development of nearby logistic complexes led by Port Authority and, by doing so, to promote the development of local economy. Thirdly it is essential to lay the foundation of mutual prosperity through developing profitable businesses by linking localities and harbors, and to suggest a crisis control network for Port Authority and local self-governing bodies to cope jointly with crises in logistics and natural disasters.