Seoul needs to pursue a distinct sports city policy that leverages the city’s unique characteristics. The concept of a "sports city" involves contributing to urban economic development and establishing Seoul's identity in the field of sports by hosting various events and competitions. To strengthen its image as a sports city, Seoul should focus on attracting events, developing infrastructure, and building networks to raise brand awareness.
The sports industry is recognized as a future-oriented engine of innovation and growth. Given its significant role in the sports service sector, Seoul should explore business opportunities and formulate support measures targeting key sports service industries with high growth potential.
To enhance the capacity of its sports industry and promote Seoul as a sports city, the city should align its inherent strengths with strategic initiatives. These include attracting large-scale international sports events, branding sustainable “Seoul-style” competitions, expanding and activating sports infrastructure, and positioning Seoul as a premier sports tourism destination. Further efforts could focus on revitalizing sports tourism, nurturing the e-sports sector, and identifying areas for early entry into global markets.
Establishing a dedicated sports promotion agency or enacting ordinances to foster the sports industry in Seoul could provide a legal and institutional foundation for sustained support. An integrated system offering one-stop services—from event attraction to promotion and facility management—is essential.
Lastly, rather than limiting the focus to branding Seoul within specific fields, it is crucial to explore direct support measures for businesses to comprehensively foster the city’s sports industry.