한국사회 부패의 문화적 기저와 그 해체가능성 모색 - 반부패 국민의식에 대한 실태분석 및 개선방안을 중심으로 -

Corruption and Culture in South Korean Society

Corruption is deeply rooted in South Korean culture and society in spite of the various anti-corruption measures employed to curb it. This article analyses the citizens level of consciousness, frequency, origins of responsibility, susceptibility, and prevention of corruption on the basis of two national surveys in South Korea. The survey data suggest that familial symbolisation is the cultural motivation that makes Koreans sensitive to but tolerant of corruption. The article also explores the reforms required for a corruption-free society and whether the citizens consciousness can be improved. The article concludes that corruption is a serious problem among both South Korean politicians and civil servants and that the emphasis on family ties is a major cause of corruption in Korean society.