Objectives: This study explored the competencies necessary for public officials to perform their tastks in order to strengthen the competencies of public officials of public health center in South Korea. Methods: This study employed the focus group interview method to collect qualitative data from five different focus groups comprising 20 representative health center officials during June 6-15, 2022. The study used a purposeful sampling approach to select a variety of public officials working in the public health centers. Qualitative content analysis was used for data analysis. Results: Interview results were categorized into 19 sub-competencies under 9 required competencies. The nine competencies are as follows: assessment and analysis of community health, planning and implementation of a community health program, knowledge and skills of healthcare professionals, communication and cooperation, development and utilization of community resources, practical problem-solving, ethics of public servants, application of information and communications technology in healthcare, and administrative work. Conclusion: Public officials at public health centers should have the capabilities required to not only protect and promote the health of the community but also actively respond to the community’s health needs in a rapidly changing healthcare environment.