The capacities of local government in early response to Covid 19: Evidence from South Korea

Abstract

IMPACT The pressure on local governments to address complex local issues is increasing worldwide. In emergencies like the Covid 19 pandemic, the role of local governments as primary on-site responders is essential. Focusing on the Covid 19 responses of South Korean local governments, the authors found that the relative importance of local leader’s capabilities and local infrastructure varies across early disaster response phases. In the short to medium term, when quick decision-making is needed, the capabilities of local leaders are critical. In contrast, during the long term, local infrastructure plays a greater role in managing prolonged crises.