A Study on the Concept and Success Factors of Alliance Universities

This study aims to explore the emergence of alliance universities as a new model of university innovation and to enhance understanding of their concepts and key components. Additionally, it examines university-level efforts and governmental policies necessary for their success within the Korean context. To achieve these goals, comprehensive literature analysis, policy process analysis, and expert focus group interviews were conducted. The research findings are as follows. First, alliance universities are defined as a system where two or more universities establish a single decision-making body to collaborate extensively toward common goals. Second, analysis using the policy process model revealed the convergence of problem flows, political flows, and policy alternative flows around the policy agenda of alliance universities, particularly triggered by the “2024 Glocal University 30 project” initiative. Third, success factors for the establishment and operation of alliance universities include: establishing a vision and branding, governance influence and autonomy scope setting, formulation of specialization strategies, and fostering consensus through member participation and communication. The study concludes with academic and practical implications for alliance universities.