Q-methodology analysis of Perceived Risks in Tourists and Local residents towards Natural Disaster: The 2016 Gyeongju Earthquake in Republic of Korea

Abstract

The impact of disasters on the tourism industry, such as reducing the demand for domestic tourists as well as inbound tourism from foreign tourists, is enormous. As disasters also increased, safety-related issues became a major concern for tourists. On September 12, 2016, the largest earthquake of 5.8 occurred in Gyeongju, Korea's major tourist city. The purpose of this study is to compare how tourists and local residents behave and are to be influenced in the economic, socio - cultural, political and psychological aspects by Gyeongju earthquake and to provide some suggestions. To obtain the purpose, this study firstly investigated the changes and influences of society caused by the racing earthquake objectively, systematically, and comprehensively for tourists and local residents in various aspects of the Gyungju earthquake. Second, we analyzed in depth the difference of perception and coping behaviors experienced by tourists and local residents. Finally, the implications for tourism in the occurrence of Gyeongju earthquake were suggested. This study adopted the Q methodology. The Q methodology is an approach in which subjects themselves make their opinions and meanings. A total of 7 types were derived from Q methodology for tourists. The seven types are: Functional risk, Psychological risk, Physical risk, Time Risk, Social Risk, Financial Risk, Satisfaction risk. A total of 7 types were also derived from Q methodology for local residents. The seven types are: Functional risk, Psychological risk, Physical risk, Time Risk, Social Risk, Financial Risk, Media Risk. Seven types were derived from each side. Tourists are exposed to the element of satisfaction risk, and local residents are exposed to media risk. Also, there were differences in factors that were important. The results of this study will contribute to overcome the crisis of tourism due to disaster such as an earthquake.