Exploring an emerging paradigm of internationalization in local universities amid population decline: comparative studies in Japan, South Korea and Taiwan

Purpose This study aims to explore an emerging paradigm of internationalization in local universities in Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, aiming to contribute to sustainable regional development amid population decline. Design/methodology/approach To achieve the research purpose, we examined internationalization strategies, objectives and initiatives at local universities in Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. Six universities in each country/region were asked to complete a survey on their internationalization practices. Interviews were also conducted with key actors in university-wide internationalization or regional revitalization activities, including senior leaders, academics and administrators. Findings The study revealed that social contribution and engagement were low priorities among the objectives for the internationalization of higher education (IoHE); however, internationalization efforts aimed at supporting sustainable regional development were observed and categorized into four types: glocal human resource development, local talent retention through collaboration with local industries and organizations, local industry and value creation, and creation and expansion of related populations. Reflecting on these internationalization efforts, an emerging internationalization strategy was identified as a means of sustainable regional development. Research limitations/implications The findings of this study are based on an analysis of 18 purposefully selected local universities in three East Asian countries/regions experiencing rapid and severe population decline. Although an emerging internationalization strategy was identified, further research involving non-elite, non-metropolitan universities in other regions is needed to validate and refine this strategy as a broadly applicable model. Practical implications This study provides evidence of a noticeable gap between the internationalization efforts being implemented and the institutional internationalization objectives. It suggests that government policy should support and guide the emerging internationalization approach toward a more deliberate and sustainable model. Social implications This study demonstrates that the internationalization of local universities has the potential to contribute to sustainable regional development by identifying four key internationalization initiatives linked to the university’s third mission of social contribution and community engagement. Originality/value This study presents an international comparative analysis of case studies conducted in three East Asian countries/regions, focusing on the internationalization of local universities. It explores the role of higher education internationalization in supporting the universities’ third mission by identifying internationalization efforts linked to sustainable regional development. This study identifies an emerging strategy for the internationalization of higher education.