Corporate social responsibility of the port authority in the Republic of Korea: a case study of Incheon port authority

Lee, Seungmin ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5315-2636 2023. Corporate social responsibility of the port authority in the Republic of Korea: a case study of Incheon port authority. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

Purpose: This thesis aims to explore the corporate social responsibility (CSR) and stakeholder management strategies employed by port authorities (PAs), using the Incheon Port Authority (IPA) in the Republic of Korea as a case study. Through a structured analysis of empirical data, it develops a substantive theory that provides explanatory depth and predictive capability concerning the planning and implementation of CSR initiatives by PAs. Methodology: A qualitative case study research design was employed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews to explore the CSR initiatives and stakeholder management practices of the IPA. Analytical methods and coding procedures derived from Straussian grounded theory were employed in the data analysis. Through systematic coding, key categories and concepts were identified, contributing to the development of a substantive theoretical framework. Findings: The CSR initiatives of the IPA, spanning economic, environmental, and social dimensions, were identified and critically analysed. These initiatives were devised and executed in alignment with stakeholder expectations and national policy directives. The prioritisation and classification of stakeholders were shaped by their perceived influence over the IPA’s operational activities and governance structure. Key stakeholders included port users, governmental agencies, IPA employees, and the local community. Adherence to Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards enhanced communication between the IPA and its stakeholders and constituted a core component of its stakeholder management strategy. Nevertheless, a disconnect was observed between the IPA’s CSR initiatives and stakeholder expectations. In response, this thesis introduced the theory of CSR decoupling, which serves as an interpretive framework for understanding the IPA’s CSR and stakeholder engagement practices. Furthermore, the application of stakeholder salience theory enables critical engagement with the existing literature. Research Implications: This thesis represents the first comprehensive exploration of the CSR initiatives of PAs within the South Korean context. By proposing the CSR decoupling theory, it offers novel insights into how PAs conceptualise, plan, and implement CSR activities, thereby establishing a conceptual foundation for subsequent academic research. Practical Implications: The CSR decoupling theory provides a valuable framework for central governments and port authorities to anticipate, interpret, and respond proactively to challenges associated with port governance and CSR practice.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Business (Including Economics)
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	15 August 2025
Last Modified:	15 Aug 2025 13:23
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/180425

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