Utilization Strategies of the Metaverse in Disaster Management: A Framework Based on Spatial Information and Digital Twin Integration

The frequency and severity of disasters have been steadily increasing due to climate change, rapid urbanization, and socio-environmental complexity. While existing ICT-based disaster management systems have contributed to improving preparedness and response, they face limitations in real-time integration, citizen participation, and immersive training. This study explores the potential of metaverse technologies—such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Extended Reality (XR), and Digital Twin—in enhancing disaster management across the entire cycle of prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. By analyzing domestic and international cases, including FEMA VR training (USA), earthquake VR simulations (Japan), Virtual Singapore (Singapore), and Korean initiatives (LX flood risk map and NDMI disaster-safety metaverse platform), this paper proposes a metaverse-based disaster management framework. The findings indicate that the metaverse can significantly strengthen disaster risk prediction, immersive training, real-time situational awareness, and participatory recovery planning. Finally, the paper discusses policy implications, challenges, and future research needs for the effective adoption of the metaverse in disaster management.