The competitiveness of a country or a city plays an important role as a determining factor in this age of globalization In view of tourism studies, the potential for a region to develop depends primarily on its ability to use and maintain economic advantages in its provision of tourist products and services. In spite of the importance of competitiveness in tourism studies, few researches have been done on competitiveness in Korea The purpose of this study is, therefore, to conduct a comparative analysis of competitiveness between coastal metropolitan cities in Korea-Busan, Ulsan and Incheon- developing tourism index and finding out urban competitiveness. The findings of this study will contribute to enhancing tourism promotion and mutual network with other cities and attracting domestic and international tourists.

• Wii-Joo Yhang