Purpose: This study aims to propose strategies for activating barrier-free marine sports for culturally underprivileged groups, particularly individuals with disabilities. It seeks to evaluate and prioritize key activation factors such as physical infrastructure, customized content, participation support programs, and systemic support using Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA).
Method: A questionnaire was developed and distributed to 200 individuals with disabilities residing in Busan. The survey examined actual participation in marine sports, preferred environments, and perceptions of importance and satisfaction regarding 12 sub-factors across four major categories. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and IPA.
Results: First, the overall level of satisfaction was lower than the perceived importance across all categories, indicating a gap between expectations and service provision. Second, the IPA analysis placed the following items in Quadrant I (high importance, high satisfaction): expansion of experiential and educational programs, operation of volunteer programs, training and deployment of professional personnel, and development of tourism products. Third, Quadrant II (high importance, low satisfaction) included corporate-sponsored free programs, education and promotion for disability awareness, and information and guidance services — suggesting these are priority areas for immediate policy and investment attention. Fourth, the voucher project appeared in Quadrant III (low importance, low satisfaction), indicating a need for reevaluation or restructuring. Lastly, Quadrant IV (low importance, high satisfaction) included immersive content development, construction of dedicated facilities, provision of specialized equipment, and facility accessibility improvement, showing that these elements are well provided but not currently regarded as critical by users.
Conclusion: To effectively promote barrier-free marine sports, a demand-centered policy approach is required, with greater emphasis on integrated information systems, corporate ESG involvement, and sustainable program design. The findings suggest that practical services and policies should be more closely aligned with the perceived needs of culturally underprivileged populations to enhance inclusion in the marine leisure sector.