The Political Economy of South Korea’s Labor Landscape: Internalizing Labor Rights in the Global Industry

In South Korea, the implementation of labor norms has been visible, with the internalization of these norms playing a crucial role. The dynamics and contestation between actors are key drivers that often determine the outcome of the labor norm internalization process. Previous research has focused on labor norm violations in South Korea and the influence of domestic politics, leaving a gap for studies that examine the process of norm internalization and the key actors involved. Using Finnemore and Sikkink’s “Norm Life Cycle” framework, this research analyzes the interactions behind labor norm internalization in South Korea and the additional political economy landscape. The findings show that international labor standards have been essential in driving domestic changes to labor norms. Both international and domestic pressures, particularly from labor unions and the EU, have played a significant role. The integration of international labor norms into the domestic system is also evident through the ratification of ILO Conventions. However, despite these ratifications, the influence of the nation’s political and cultural belief is substantial, as it hinders full internalization. This highlights how political dynamics in South Korea’s economic sector, along with actor contestation, have significantly shaped the limitations of labor norm internalization.