Local welfare refers to social welfare tasks that reflect the traits of and are unique to a region. This
study aimed to explore ways to strengthen the independent functions of social welfare centers as a means
of promoting local welfare. To that end, this study first examined the appropriateness of recognizing local
welfare and the roles that social welfare centers perform. Results showed that, since social welfare centers
were public by nature, all of the centers in the country were standardized and failed to reflect local
characteristics. However, the independent functions of social welfare centers were guaranteed, being the only
legal entity that supports local welfare based on the Social Welfare Services Act. Therefore, this study proposes that, in order to strengthen the independent functions of social welfare centers, they should
enhance subsidies due to their public nature, discretion based on their emergency measures, and creativity
so as to demonstrate local characteristics. To achieve these objectives, current social welfare centers should
be changed to local welfare-oriented public social welfare centers, be supported by local governments
regarding budget and additional staffing, and serve as integrated case management centers.