New Perspecitve on Mega-events: Residents' Quality of Life

Abstract

This study delves into the multifaceted dimensions of residents' quality of life influenced by hosting mega-events, namely the F1 Korean Grand Prix 2010 and the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics. Employing an insider's perspective (emic approach), the research investigates the contextual shifts in residents' quality of life resulting from their engagement with these significant events. By employing qualitative methods such as participant observation and in-depth interviews, the study explores various phenomena surrounding the mega-events and their intricate relationship with the quality of life. The identified phenomena encompass a range of aspects, including socioeconomic effects, educational impacts on local communities, infrastructure development, recreational and cultural experiences, emotional well-being, community spirit, and direct economic exchanges. By examining residents' perceptions of quality of life, subjective expectations, and the dynamics of exchange, the study establishes a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. The relationship model derived from the research reveals how the residents' daily experiences, stemming from individual or collective social interactions, significantly influence their perception of quality of life across various domains. Furthermore, factors such as individual social engagement, recreational and cultural experiences, and emotional well-being exert both positive and negative influences on residents' quality of life perceptions. Ultimately, the study highlights that the standards and processes of perceiving quality of life may vary based on residents' characteristics and their direct involvement in economic exchanges. Overall, this research offers a sophisticated exploration of the interplay between hosting mega-events and residents' quality of life, shedding light on the complexities of subjective expectations and exchange within this context.