Dimensions and dynamics of spatial wage inequality in Seoul, 2006 to 2018

ABSTRACT This study analysed the dimensions and patterns of spatial wage income inequality in Seoul from 2006 to 2018. A Theil decomposition was applied to National Health Insurance Service administrative big data of all Seoul residents. Three distinct dimensions of spatial wage inequality (‘regional wage income differences’, ‘within-regions income inequality’ and ‘between-regions income inequality’) were confirmed using factor analysis. A subsequent cluster analysis identified four major district patterns of wage inequality evolutions, including a pattern of triple ‘highs’ and another of triple ‘lows’ of average wage income, within-low-level administrative areas (dongs) inequality and between-dongs inequality. These dimensions and dynamic patterns of spatial income inequality in Seoul were interlinked and they co-evolved with the development of the city and community development policies.