"지자체" refers to local governments in South Korea, which are responsible for managing various administrative functions within their respective regions. These entities include cities, counties, and districts, each with elected officials who make decisions on local policies, budgets, and services. The primary role of 지자체 is to address the needs of their communities, such as education, public safety, and infrastructure. They work to improve the quality of life for residents and ensure that local laws and regulations are enforced. This decentralized system allows for more tailored governance that reflects the unique characteristics of each area.