An analysis of the spatial distribution of population and housing: The case of Daejeon, South Korea

Abstract

This study analyzed the spatial distribution of population and housing in Daejeon Metropolitan City, a regional central city in South Korea, from the perspective of diversity. The diversity index of each administrative Dong is calculated using the population census variables of age, household, and housing type in 2010 and 2015. Variables affecting diversity changes are the increase in the number of people aged 55 or older, the increase in single-person households, and the increase in condominium dwellings. Based on extracted variables, specific population- and housing type- areas of concentration are identified: aged 55 or older, single-person households, detached houses; and age group of 35-44, couples with children, condominium dwellings. The spatial distribution shows that aged 55 or older, single-person households and detached house concentrations are found in the eastern part of the city, mainly the old city area. In contrast, 35-44 years old, couples and children, and condominium concentration districts are found in the western part where the development of condominium complexes occurred. In Daejeon, an elderly population concentration area exists, which is predicted to expand further as the elderly population increases. Since condominium construction serves as a pull factor for 35-44 years old and couples with children, condominium-centered housing construction in old city areas can increase the possibility of preserving age and household diversity.