소비자권리 및 책임의식과 지역 격차

Differences between regions are a natural phenomenon, however disparities between regions are a task to be solved. In this study, in order to examine the regional disparity in consumer rights and responsibilities, ‘The Consumption Life Indicators in Korea’ for 2019 and 2021 were analyzed. First of all, a sample with homogeneous demographic characteristics was extracted through propensity score matching, and the disparity between regions was investigated according to the classification of capital area and non-capital areas, metropolitan cities and other regions. Through this, alternatives were sought to effectively realize consumer rights and responsibilities. The conclusions of this study are as follows. First, since the regional disparity between the capital area and non-capital areas regarding consumer rights and responsibilities in not unilateral, it is necessary to prepare consumer support measures according to regional characteristics. Depending on the type of dispute resolution method, the perception rate of consumers in the capital area and non-capital areas is different. Second, the disparity between metropolitan cities and other regions among non-capital areas is generally more positive, so it is necessary to expand consumer-related infrastructure and prepare realistic support measures for small and medium-sized cities and rural areas. In particular, consumers in other regions showed a relatively low level of consciousness about the right to be safe and to receive information. Third, as a result of examining the trend of the disparity between 2019 and 2021, variables related to consumer rights and responsibilities generally improved, and in particular, effective measures to meet the demand to participate in consumer activities are required. As a result, it is expected that consumers, governments, and companies will cooperate to actively create an environment to realize consumer rights and responsibilities, thereby promoting consumer welfare.