Public policy analysis is the evaluation of socioeconomic and political problems to provide solutions that can be authorised by legislatures and subsequently implemented by public officials in the executive branch. A key component of policy analysis is the assessment of existing public policies and programmes to determine their effectiveness and efficiency. Public policy analysis is a careful evaluation and study of the formulation, adoption and implementation of a course of action intended to improve economic, social, or other public issues.

Tackling unprecedented problems such as COVID-19, global warming and climate change, natural hazards, and the economic and social bipolarisation of society, and preparing an adequate safety net are gaining more importance, locally and globally. These problems are volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous by nature. Accordingly, the missions and roles of public policy have never been more important, not only in South Korea, but also worldwide.

South Korea, officially the Republic of Korea (and henceforth ‘Korea’), has reached an advantageous position in the global community. Its economy is the tenth largest by nominal gross domestic product in the world, identifying it as one of the G-20 major economies. Its exports have increasingly reached beyond manufactured goods such as cars and semiconductors to include pop culture, a phenomenon now referred to as the Korean Wave. From prize-winning dramas and films, to popular music and cuisine, Korea has a prominent place in many boardrooms and homes across the world. At home, Koreans enjoy a vibrant democracy, high educational standards, and a safe society with advanced levels of health care and innovative technologies.

Public policy analysis or the study of government actions with the aim to improve programme and policy outcomes has always occupied a principal place in Korea. This book shares South Korea's experience in public policy analysis. As illustrated by several thoroughly analysed chapters in this book, even though policy analysis is mostly exercised within public agencies, it is by no means restricted to these.

The editors, T.J. Lah and Thomas R. Klassen, have compiled it such that it will prove to be a major contribution to research and pedagogy as well as valuable reading for specialists, whether they are students, scholars or practitioners. I believe the readers of this book will find it informative and helpful in understanding the policy process, particularly policy analysis and evaluation.