Antecedents and characteristics of informal relation-based networks in Korea: Yongo, Yonjul and Inmaek
Horak, S. (2014). Antecedents and characteristics of
informal relation-based networks in Korea: Yongo, Yonjul and Inmaek. Asia
Pacific Business Review, 20(1), 78-108.
DOI: 10.1080/13602381.2013.791567
Link:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/13602381.2013.791567
Abstract
Although there has been a large amount written about Chinese Guanxi networks, a
detailed debate concerning Korean informal relation-based networks is by
comparison under-represented in the international business literature. This
paper introduces and distinguishes between three forms of informal
relation-based networks in Korea: (1) Yongo, (2) Yonjul and (3) Inmaek. Inmaek
describes a social network in general, while Yongo networks draw primarily on
existing kinship-, university/school- and regional origin-based ties. Contrary
to Yongo ties, Yonjul ties exist for a purpose, often to secure personal gains
and benefits. In all three forms, kinship-, university/school- and regional
origin-based ties play primary, but not exclusive, roles. A better understanding
of Korean informal relation-based networks helps contribute to the advancement
of knowledge about the anatomy of informal institution, as well as to the
growing field of indigenous management research, by identifying and analysing an
influential contextual factor in Korea. In addition, it underlines important
implications for management practices in Korea.
Keywords
indigenous management research; informal relation-based networks; Inmaek; Korea;
Yongo; Yonjul