An Analysis of the RISE Master Plans from the Perspective of the Quadruple Helix: Focusing on the Construction of Regional Innovation Ecosystems and “Embedding”

This study investigates whether Korea’s Regional Innovation System for Education (RISE) effectively supports the qualitative settlement of local talent—conceptualized as ‘Seeping’ (emotional and relational embeddedness)—by conducting a comparative analysis of the RISE master plans (2025–2029) of Gangwon, Jeju, and Ulsan. A review of prior studies revealed that existing regional innovation research remains largely focused on the triple helix structure—local government, universities, and industry—thus insufficiently addressing the role of civil society. In addition, settlement research has predominantly relied on quantitative indicators such as employment rates and population inflows, limiting the explanation of qualitative processes of regional attachment. To address these limitations, this study adopts the quadruple helix as a normative model for regional innovation governance and operationalizes the concept of ‘Seeping’ by categorizing it into emotional bonding (E1), social integration (E2), and community engagement (E3). Using Krippendorff’s qualitative content analysis methodology, the study coded and analyzed the vision, strategies, core projects, and governance structures of the three regional plans based on QH (Q1–Q4) and Seeping (E1–E3) categories. The results indicate that all three regions are still dominated by triple helix governance, with the participation of civil society (Q4) remaining limited to project-level involvement such as living labs. In the Seeping analysis, clear regional distinctions emerged. Gangwon demonstrated a balanced integration of emotional bonding (E1) and social integration (E2), reflecting a multi-dimensional approach linking living, cultural, and academic spaces. Jeju emphasized community engagement (E3), forming an economy- and practice-oriented settlement model through strategies such as contribution-based talent cultivation and employment–residence linkage. Ulsan displayed a strong emphasis on social integration (E2) and community engagement (E3), reinforcing settlement through employment connectivity and living infrastructure, while emotional attachment-building strategies were comparatively limited. These findings suggest that the design phase of RISE is implemented differently depending on each region’s industrial structure, population flows, and policy priorities, and that the embeddedness of qualitative settlement elements within strategic planning is essential for establishing a sustainable regional innovation ecosystem. The study highlights the institutionalization of civil society participation and the strengthening of emotional and identity-based settlement strategies as key challenges for advancing the RISE framework.