헤어디자인 국가대표에 대한 대표성 및 사회적 인식 연구

Abstract

This study aimed to compare the institutional and structural differences between nationally certified hair design representatives in the WorldSkills Competition and Korean representatives in private international beauty competitions, and to explore public perceptions and misunderstandings surrounding them. Nationally certified representatives are selected through multi-stage procedures such as regional and national competitions, and receive legal benefits including military exemption, pensions, and education support. In contrast, private competition participants are selected by non-governmental associations, usually at their own expense, and receive no state-recognized benefits. Survey results showed that over 50% of respondents mistakenly believed these participants were official national representatives or received equal privileges. Many had seen the term ‘national representative’ in media coverage of private competitions, which contributed to the confusion. About 91% agreed on the need for public education on the certified national representative system. Despite limitations in sample diversity, this study fills a gap in existing research by analyzing distinctions and social confusion between certified and private representatives, offering insights for academic and policy communication