This study develops a methodology to measure contributions of three spatial transformation pathways in zoning changes and empirically analyzes zoning change patterns across Korea’s 17 metropolitan cities and provinces. Using 2017–2022 data from the Korea Land & Geospatial Informatix Corp., we quantified contributions from non-urban area incorporation, existing zoning conversion, and unspecified area designation. Standardized indicators were derived using dual weights reflecting each region’s share in national zoning area increase and total area. Results show development-oriented zoning changes nationwide, with residential-commercial-industrial (RCI) area expansion across all regions, yet with regionally distinct patterns. Metropolitan cities display internal densification via green-to-RCI conversion—particularly in Seoul, Busan, and Gwangju—while provinces show external expansion through non-urban incorporation, notably in Gangwon, Chungnam, Jeonnam, and Gyeongnam. The Seoul metropolitan area features mixed strategies: Seoul’s densification, Gyeonggi’s hybrid pattern, and Incheon’s planned new towns. Standardized indicator analysis reveals high national contribution from green area conversion in the Seoul area, and major contributions from Jeonnam and Gyeonggi in non-urban incorporation. This study offers a new framework to systematically decompose zoning change processes and informs region-specific management and pathway-based policy design.