What Influences Collaborative Relationships between Central and Local Governments? Empirical Evidence from South Korea

This study investigates the factors that influence collaborative relationships between the central and local governments, drawing on the intergovernmental relations theory. Specifically, we examine the impacts of function allocation, personnel and financial relationships, administrative control, contact frequency, and collaborative attitude on intergovernmental collaboration using a comprehensive approach. To do so, this study utilizes a large volume of survey data on intergovernmental relationships collected by the Korean Institute of Public Administration. We found that collaborative attitude and level of satisfaction on fiscal relationships had positive impacts on intergovernmental collaboration across all levels of government, but the priority each level of government placed on other factors varied. Results and implications are discussed.