This study aims at comparative analysis on urban planning system of England, Germany and the USA, and thus to derive useful implications for the korean planning system. The focus of analysis is laid on two aspects of urban planning system; the one, substantial aspect and the other, procedural aspect. The substantial aspect deals with the status of urban planning within the national spatial planning system, the types of urban plans and their roles, and the tools for plan implementation. In respect to plan-making procedure, the authorized bodies for plan-making, the way of conforming various plans and policies, and the participation of stake-holders, especially, citizens in plan-making are analysed.
The implications derived are as follows: First, korean urban planning system seems to adopt all the useful systems from the three countries, but superficially without necessary fundamentals. Second, the tools for plan implementation are not sufficient enough to keep the urban built environment sustainable. Third, citizen participation in plan-making is largely in formality. Thus, the quality of life of korean cities is still far beyond the desirable state comparing with economic accomplishment. An active but stepwise innovation of urban planning system is urgently needed.