CHARACTERISTICS OF KOREAN SOCIAL NETWORKS

Abstract

Using the method of synthesis and analysis of available large-scale survey references, this paper points out special features in the social networks of the Korean including three structural characteristics: network size, frequency of contact, and network types; and two functional characteristics: homogeneity and reciprocity (the particular case is the symmetry and the asymmetry). The main results are summarized as follows. In terms of network structure, (1) despite being at a lower level than that of other countries of OECD, in the past 10 years, the social network size of the Korean has been growing, (2) two main types of social networks in Korean society are the network inside the family, relatives, and the network outside the family, relatives. Accordingly, the former usually provides help such as moneyand shared housework. In contrast, the latter often provides assistance by sharing emotional feelings, information, etc. With regard to network function, the Korean tend to form and maintain highly homogeneous social networks. In particular, the network of family and the one of school friends are more important when a person needs help. In addition, the relation of giving and receiving help of the network inside the family is often more asymmetrical than that of the network outside the family.