Developing a knowledge management culture to stimulate organizational learning in digital environment: the effect of digital leadership and information technology

Purpose This study aims to explore how digital leadership (DL) and information technology (IT) influence knowledge management (KM) to the achievement of organizational learning (OL). In addition, it investigates the mediating effect of KM in the relationships between DL and OL, as well as between IT and OL. Design/methodology/approach The study was conducted in the Seoul Industrial Area of South Korea, specifically targeting the telecommunications sector. Data were collected from 312 participants who shared their perspectives on their experiences with IT, DL and knowledge-sharing within their respective organizations. The analysis was conducted using partial least squares structural equation modeling. Findings The findings offer valuable insights for managers aiming to align KM strategies with their organizations’ broader strategic goals. Both DL and IT demonstrate a positive relationship with KM, which, in turn, has a favorable effect on OL. The finding further reveals that KM mediates the relationship between DL and OL; and between IT and OL. These results underscore the significant role of KM in enhancing OL. Originality/value The study’s originality lies in combining DL, IT, KM and OL within the context of South Korea’s telecommunications industry. Anchored in the resource-based view framework, the research demonstrates that both DL and IT have a significant and positive impact on KM, which, in turn, strongly influences OL. This study builds upon existing empirical work and offers practical guidance for enhancing OL in digitally progressive organizational environments.