Metaverse-based Korean Digital Citizenship NFT: A Strategy for Strengthening National Competitiveness and Attracting Global Talent Through K-Culture and ICT Infrastructure
This study explores an innovative solution to address South Korea's declining population and rapid aging: the "Metaverse-based Korean Digital Citizenship NFT" model. Current population policies in South Korea fail to fully reflect the changing values and needs of the younger generation. This research proposes a model that leverages metaverse and NFT technologies to capitalize on Korea’s two key strengths—K-Culture and advanced ICT infrastructure—by issuing digital citizenship as NFTs that bridge metaverse spaces with reality. This model aims to attract global fanbases, enabling users to engage in diverse content consumption and production within the metaverse, while simultaneously offering tangible benefits during their visits to Korea. The feasibility of the proposed "Metaverse-based Korean Digital Citizenship NFT" model is assessed by examining successful projects such as Estonia’s e-Residency program, Decentraland, and The Sandbox. Through this, the study estimates how digital citizenship in the metaverse and NFT-based economic activities could enhance Korea's cultural influence and economic gains, contributing to national competitiveness. A mixed-method research approach, including literature reviews and case studies, is adopted to analyze the model’s feasibility, societal potential, and associated challenges. The findings suggest that the "Korean Digital Citizenship NFT Model" holds potential to attract domestic and international talent by activating global fandoms and a startup ecosystem centered on K-Culture. This model could contribute to the stabilization of national finances, the growth of digital asset transactions, and overall fiscal improvements, offering concrete economic benefits. Future research should address the legal and policy support structures, along with the technical challenges of the model, while assessing its long-term economic and social impact.