IN-PERSON Barcelona Livable Cities. Section B

Abstract

This study investigates the evolving social context of South Korea and its implications for Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) initiatives. As the country faces rapid demographic shifts, such as population aging, an increase in one- and two-person households, and urban depopulation, along with the rise of smart city technologies, there is growing concern that conventional CPTED strategies—largely limited to installing surveillance cameras and beautifying public spaces—are insufficient for addressing contemporary safety needs. To identify priority issues and feasible directions for improvement, this research employed an expert opinion survey involving 30 professionals across architecture, urban planning, public safety, and welfare sectors. Experts evaluated a series of social issues in terms of importance, urgency, and responsiveness for CPTED intervention. Key findings indicate that urban decline in city centers, the clustering of small household units, and the proliferation of vacant homes in rural areas are among the most pressing challenges. In terms of strategic response, experts highlighted the potential of smart city management systems and data-based urban monitoring platforms to enhance the effectiveness of CPTED programs. The study concludes that CPTED in South Korea must evolve beyond physical improvements toward integrated, technology-enhanced safety management, particularly in vulnerable residential areas. It also calls for stronger integration with urban regeneration projects to address both physical and social disorder. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and urban safety planners seeking to adapt CPTED principles to rapidly changing urban environments, both in Korea and in similar contexts internationally.