Due to prolonged economic recession and increased pressure on opening the architecture industry to the global market, the Korean architecture sector faces a difficult period. The current architect related systems do not effectively respond to rapidly changing internal and external conditions, and also are unable to reflect the distinct professional qualities of an architect (architects). These institutional problems are becoming a major cause of weakening competitiveness of architects who are responsible for securing people's safety and property. Recognizing such issues, this study aims to propose the systematic improvement of the architect related institution in order to strengthen the competitiveness of Korean architectural industry. The four main issues discussed in this study are the establishment of an architecture firm which recognizes the architect as a distinct profession, the formation of a system which supports Korean architects entering overseas markets, the establishment of an architect's mutual benefit association, and the provision of a legal basis for financial support in government commissioned projects.