지식기반산업의 입지 분포 패턴과 그 결정요인에 관한 연구

Traditional manufacturing companies typically locate in regions that allow for the maximization of profits. In contrast, the location patterns of knowledge-based industry companies, which depend heavily on knowledge, information, and human capital as critical production factors, are expected to display distinct characteristics. This study examines the location patterns of knowledge-based industry companies in South Korea and analyzes the regional factors influencing these patterns to understand the unique attributes of the knowledge-based industries. The analysis indicates that knowledge-based industry companies in South Korea are predominantly clustered in Seoul, as well as certain areas of Gyeonggi and Incheon. Additionally, regions adjacent to these clusters have fewer knowledge-based industry companies. Over time, these areas have expanded into neighboring regions. Consequently, while knowledge-based industry companies in less dense areas tend to relocate to other regions, clusters with a high density of these companies continue to strengthen. This location pattern is corroborated by the analysis of location determinants, which shows that knowledge-based industry companies prefer regions with a high concentration of similar companies and metropolitan areas with diverse businesses. They also favor regions with large labor markets and lower labor costs. To promote the growth of the knowledge-based industries as a driver of regional economic growth, it is essential to develop knowledge-based industry clusters, generate agglomeration effects, create stable labor supply markets, and encourage the reduction of business operating costs.