Abstract
The effects and results of regional revitalization programs carried out to revitalize with relative less favored area were analyzed by the AHP method, and the state of improvement in the regional settlement conditions was evaluated. On the basis of the findings, rural improvement and development necessary for future revitalization of hilly and mountainous areas were also evaluated.
The study showed that the SANSOYOO Festival exerted various general effects but particularly contributed to increases in the income and improvements in the quality of life of local residents. However, its effects on depopulation and aging, which are urgent problems of hilly and mountainous areas, or on the living environment, which is the space for daily activities of local residents, were slight. To enhance the efficiency of revitalization programs, planning and execution of programs by participation of more residents is expected to be effective, and continuous implementation of diverse programs throughout the year rather than sporadic short-term events is necessary. Also, for future regional revitalization and improvement of the settlement environment, health care and medical services to cope with the aging society and improvement of the living environment by making full use of the natural environment as well as aggressive promotion of urban-rural interaction were suggested to be tasks with the greatest priority.
