As regions across many countries face severe population decline due to low birth rates, an aging society, and urban migration, this demographic shift leads to a diminishing labor force, reduced economic productivity, and challenges in sustaining local services and infrastructure. Simultaneously, the increase in the elderly population heightens demand for welfare and medical services, shifts consumption patterns, and places a heavier tax burden on those of working age. Moreover, the migration of skilled labor exacerbates the depopulation of both urban and rural areas. National strategies aimed at mitigating these trends through policies focused on demographic challenges have largely fallen short.
This special issue seeks to explore the dynamics of social mobility, its influence on regional population trends, and ways to supporting smart decline. We are particularly interested in submissions that propose innovative strategies for adapting to these demographic shifts, enhancing resource allocation, and developing effective spatial and socio-economic policies.
▣ Contributions may address, but are not limited to, the following topics:
· Migration and mobility issues in small-and-medium cities and rural areas
· Soci al and economic impacts of demographic changes in local regions
· Strategies and planning for sustaining local economies amid population decline
· Migration’s role in regional depopulation dynamics
· Policy interventions for regions experiencing severe depopulation and aging
· Innovative approaches to improving social mobility
· Applications of compact city and network cities
We welcome original research articles, case studies, reviews, and policy analysis papers. Submissions should provide insightful analysis and propose solutions to one of the most pressing issues facing urban and rural regions in these days. Please note that spatial policy issues must be addressed in each paper.
▣ Tentative time line:
· Paper submission opens: November 15, 2024
· Paper submission closes: January 15, 2025
# Submission: (e-mail) lsj@kpa1959.or.kr
· Referee reports: February 28, 2024,
· Final manuscripts: April 15, 2024,
· Publication: June, 2025
· Guest Editor(s): Jung Eun Kang, Euijune Kim and Hee Jin Yang
All submissions will be subject to the journal’s standard peer-review process. Criteria for acceptance include originality, contribution, and scientific merit. Acceptance for publication is based on referees’ recommendations. For further inquiries, contact the Guest Editors.
※ Contact information:
jekang@pusan.ac.kr (Jung Eun Kang), euijune@snu.ac.kr (Euijune Kim)
hjyang@handong.edu (Hee Jin Yang), lsj@kpa1959.or.kr (Korea Planning Association)