A Study on the Application Status and Structural Limitations of Universal Design in Professional Sports Facilities in Korea

With the growing societal demand for diversity, equity, and aging-in-place support, accessibility in public facilities—especially stadiums—has become a crucial issue not only in terms of welfare, but also in relation to profitability, sustainability, and audience expansion. However, most professional sports stadiums in Korea are owned by local governments and operated by professional clubs under lease or delegation agreements. This ownership-operation separation has led to a disjunction between financial responsibility and revenue gain, making it difficult to prioritize investments in UD facilities. The lack of adequate physical access for persons with disabilities and the elderly is not merely an issue of convenience, but a critical barrier to equitable participation in cultural and recreational life. Drawing upon international best practices, particularly from the United States and New Zealand, this study highlights UD as a strategic asset that enhances fan experience, strengthens brand identity, and fulfills corporate social responsibility. Based on this analysis, the study proposes comprehensive policy measures including the restructuring of ownership and operational frameworks, strengthening of legal enforcement, implementation of fiscal incentives, development of multi-stakeholder collaboration systems, and broad-based public awareness campaigns.