Diagnosing urban centrality disparity: Integrating central place and flow theories in Seoul’s spatial structure

Abstract

This study presents an integrated analysis of urban centrality by bridging Central Place Theory (CPT) and Central Flow Theory (CFT) through a node–place perspective, with particular attention to the distinction between morphological and functional polycentricity. Focussing on 424 administrative districts (dong) in Seoul, this study computes potential accessibility from the CPT perspective and betweenness centrality from the CFT perspective using origin–destination (OD) mobility data. Based on these indicators, spatial centrality hierarchies are reclassified. The results reveal that approximately 25% of districts display a mismatch between the CPT- and CFT-based hierarchies, indicating a divergence between morphological and functional centrality structures. Notably, some traditional city centres, designated as core areas in planning documents, exhibit low levels of CFT centrality due to weak actual activity flows. In contrast, certain employment hubs and transfer nodes demonstrate higher CFT centrality than CPT centrality, effectively functioning as de facto activity centres. This dual spatial structure underscores the need for policy realignment and the functional reassessment of urban centres. By linking CPT- and CFT-based approaches, the study conceptualises ‘centrality disparity’ as a form of node–place mismatch and offers an empirical framework for diagnosing the multidimensional structure of urban space. The findings contribute to refining central place planning, informing strategies for functional restructuring, and guiding broader urban policy development.