Tracing the Impact Pathway of Corporate Policy on Knowledge and Innovation Development in Korean Industry*
Tracing the Impact Pathway of Corporate Policy on Knowledge and Innovation Development in Korean Industry*
강은구, 이휘재
초록
Purpose: The current study investigates how corporate policy—encompassing governance, ownership structure, ESG and CSR orientation, and knowledge-management practice shapes knowledge creation and innovation performance in Korean firms. The research aims to provide an integrated understanding of how these policy mechanisms interact to influence long-term competitiveness. Research design, data and methodology: A systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, synthesizing empirical and theoretical studies published over the past two decades. Databases including Scopus, Web of Science, JSTOR, and ScienceDirect were searched using keywords related to Korean industry, corporate governance, ownership, ESG/CSR, knowledge management, and innovation. Results: The findings of the research indicate that strengthened corporate governance enhances innovation by reducing agency problems and promoting long-term R&D commitment. Ownership concentration and foreign ownership positively influence R&D investment, while ESG and CSR activities support knowledge sharing, legitimacy building, and access to external networks. Knowledge-management systems further mediate the conversion of corporate policy into tangible innovation outcomes, especially in knowledge-intensive sectors. Conclusions: All in all, the study highlights the need for integrated corporate policy frameworks that combine governance, ownership, sustainability orientation, and knowledge-management capabilities. Such alignment is essential for fostering innovation, enhancing absorptive capacity, and strengthening Korea’s industrial competitiveness.