GOVERNORS ASSOCIATION OF KOREA

Introduction to the Governors Association of the Republic of Korea

Our Association aims to promote exchange and cooperation among metropolitan cities and provinces, address shared issues faced by local governments, and support their international affairs, thereby contributing to balanced regional development and the healthy advancement of local autonomy.

Establishment and Secretariat Functions

The Governors Association of the Republic of Korea, composed of heads of all metropolitan local governments across the nation, was established in January 1999 based on Article 182 of the Local Autonomy Act (amended January 13, 2022).

Subsequently, on April 7, 2005, the Secretariat was launched to systematically promote decentralization and joint initiatives of local governments.

199901.23
Resolution adopted to establish the Association at the National Governors’ Conference (held in Jeju)
200504.07
Opening of the Secretariat of the Governors Association of the Republic of Korea
201001.01
Transferred the function of supporting international cooperation from the Korea Local Government Internationalization Foundation Reorganized the Secretariat and launched a new internationalization foundation to promote local government globalization policies

Issue notices and prepare for various meetings of the Association
Coordinate communication among metropolitan cities and provinces to ensure smooth operations
Manage finances and accounting related to the Association’s operation
Conduct research and policy analysis on local autonomy systems
Carry out external cooperation projects to strengthen local government capacity
Manage international exchange and cooperation projects of local governments, including consigned operations
Address other matters related to the operation of the Association

Past Presidents of the Governors Association