As society advances and becomes more complex, the factors influencing the assessment of life values are diversifying. Not only the economic level but also subjective areas are increasingly recognized as important factors. Research related to the quality of life is being conducted not only at the national level but also in each local government, as factors affecting the quality of life can vary depending on the living area.
Due to a lack of research on happiness indicators reflecting the conditions of Gyeonggi-do, it is necessary to develop policies to enhance the happiness of residents in the province through the development of indicators. Against this backdrop, this study aimed to develop a Gyeonggi-do-specific happiness index reflecting the conditions of Gyeonggi-do and to use it to measure and analyze the level of happiness. The purpose is to understand the happiness level of residents and use it as foundational data for establishing basic plans and implementation plans.
Through expert Delphi surveys, a total of 71 indicators in 9 areas were ultimately developed. These 71 indicators consist of 24 objective indicators and 47 subjective indicators. The areas include subjective well-being, economy, health, education, housing and transport, employment, culture and leisure, environment, and safety. The current happiness level is 60.8 points, which is lower compared to 10 years ago (62.9 points) and 10 years later (66.7 points).
The purpose of developing indicators is to use them to enhance connectivity with policies and ultimately improve the happiness of residents. The study analyzed happiness levels and derived the following suggestions based on the results: first, a dualization strategy by strengthening positive factors and eliminating negative factors; second, strengthening management and support for the economically vulnerable; third, strengthening the role of the public sector in mental health care; and fourth, policy access that reflects the geographical characteristics and environment of Gyeonggi-do.
Furthermore, since it is important to manage the happiness index consistently, the following areas also need continuous management: first, the meaning of the happiness index itself is important, but it is also crucial to regularly identify and monitor changes, so regular surveys and indicator monitoring are important. Second, the established indicators must be continuously revised and supplemented according to social environment and policy demands. Third, happiness indicators at the city/county level that reflect regional characteristics must be established. Fourth, it is important to increase the participation of residents in the process of designing and implementing happiness indicators and related policies. Fifth, it is necessary to design and link policies for each happiness indicator to improve the happiness of provincial residents. Lastly, establishing governance and introducing happiness impact assessments are crucial for the consistent management of the happiness index.