South Korea's 17 provinces constitute the country's primary administrative division at Level 1 in a two-tier local government system. These provinces serve as the principal units of regional governance, responsible for coordinating large-scale infrastructure projects, regional economic development, education administration, and public health services within their jurisdictions. Provincial governments act as an intermediary layer between the national government and lower-level municipalities, implementing national policies while addressing region-specific needs. They maintain authority over matters that extend beyond individual cities or counties, including regional transportation networks, environmental management, and cultural preservation. The provincial system allows South Korea to balance centralized policy direction with localized administration across its diverse geographic regions.