Self-Sufficiency of New Administrative Capitals (NACs) Based on Types and Commuting Characteristics of Citizens: Case Study of Sejong

In recent decades, new administrative capitals (NACs) are being developed in Asia and developing countries due to the overcrowding of capitals and large cities. The self-sufficiency of a planned city is considered important for balanced national development. However, no study has specifically analyzed the degree of self-sufficiency of NACs. Therefore, focusing on the city of Sejong (NAC, South Korea) as an example, this study evaluated self-sufficiency using data regarding household composition and travel characteristics. The results of the three-step analysis are as follows: First, the commuting distance of the NAC was longer than that of traditionally developed cities, with relatively little internal commuter traffic in the NAC. Second, commuting to and from the NAC was primarily to large cities nearby. Third, regarding the characteristics of households living in the NAC, the ratio of second-generation households was higher and that of single-person households was relatively small compared with traditional cities. In addition, a spatial correlation in the form of a longer commuting distance in the second generation and shorter commuting distance in single-person households was confirmed. The findings of this study hold important implications for policymakers and urban planning bodies when developing an NAC.