From K-Pop to K-Preparedness: Korea confronts disaster reduction

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to describe a recent effort by the South Korean Government to stimulate a domestic disaster risk reduction (DRR) technology industry for the export market. The project is a novel form of public-private partnership (PPP) that simultaneously fulfills the mandates of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction while promoting Korea’s economic development agenda. Design/methodology/approach The research is primarily a review study of the Global DRR Technology project as it is situated in the literature of PPP research from both the public administration and disaster management disciplines. Findings Korea’s approach to address DRR through a PPP targeting the needs of East Asian countries is unique. The overall effectiveness of the effort will take time to assess, but the model is an interesting and potentially fruitful mean of advancing DRR technology dissemination. Practical implications Korea may position itself as a global leader of DRR technology through this effort in terms of both market share and support of the Sendai Framework’s objectives. If successful, the PPP approach may be adopted as a viable means of improving DRR for other countries. Social implications Using PPPs for various aspects of DRR can be win-win situation for economic development and disaster management outcomes. Originality/value This paper presents a distinct application of the PPP model for DRR that other countries may appreciate and/or adopt for their own DRR needs.