What Makes an Organization a Great Place to Work in South Korea?

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify diverse factors that positively and negatively affect a workplace and to suggest a model for great places to work in South Korean organizational contexts. The research questions guiding the study are (a) What are the most desirable characteristics of a great place to work? and (b) What are the most undesirable characteristics of a bad place to work? An online survey and mobile application with two questions asking about the components of the most desirable and undesirable characteristics of workplaces were distributed to 1,500 randomly selected job seekers and currently employed persons in various organizations in South Korea. Out of the 1,500 surveys sent, 786 people responded (a response rate of 53%). Based on the survey data, the study identified various factors that positively and negatively affect people's perceptions of a great or bad place to work, including employee welfare, pay, working hours, work environments, and interpersonal relationships. From an in-depth analysis, the study proposes a model for great places to work in South Korea. Discussions and implications for practice and future research are included.