Exploring Push-Pull Drivers of Migration Flows from South Korean Small and Medium-Sized Cities

Abstract

This study investigates migration flows from small and medium-sized cities (SMCs) in South Korea and examines the push and pull factors influencing destination choice. Focusing on 45 SMCs located outside the Seoul Capital Region and their 30 principal destination cities, the research addresses two questions: the dominant migration patterns in terms of destination city size and interprovincial movement, and the influence of economic opportunities, service accessibility, industrial specialization, and industrial diversity on migration decisions. The study applies an origin-destination migration matrix and a Multiplicative Competitive Interaction (MCI) model to analyse migration dynamics. Results reveal a two-tier migration pattern consisting of interprovincial migration towards metropolitan centres and intraprovincial migration towards nearby large or medium-sized cities. Seoul emerges as the most frequent destination, particularly for provinces lacking major urban centres. The modelling results indicate that proximity, economic opportunities, educational and cultural facilities, and industrial diversity are significant determinants of migration flows. Job opportunities, gross regional domestic product per capita, high school availability, cultural amenities, and diversified local economies function as important pull factors, especially for younger migrants. The study concludes that strengthening educational and cultural infrastructure, diversifying local economies, and reinforcing urban networks within provinces may help small and medium-sized cities retain population and support more balanced regional development in South Korea.