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Journal Information

  • ISSN: 2995-1151
  • eISSN: 2995-116x
  • Frequency: Triannual

Description

TRIANNUAL · 6 x 9 · ISSN 2995-1151 · E-ISSN 2995-116x

Dal Yong Jin, Editor in Chief, and Jihoon Kim, Associate Editor

The Korean Journal of Communication (KJC) is a peer-reviewed publication dedicated to disseminating scholarly research, book reviews, insightful commentaries, and meticulous field notes and data analysis. The journal's primary objective is to foster the advancement and wider dissemination of Korean communication studies. KJC places significant emphasis on the breadth of its scope, which encompasses theory-based research, pioneering theory development, and cutting-edge methodological approaches to Korean communication research. Furthermore, the journal highly values contributions from both the social sciences and humanities disciplines, recognizing their unique insights and perspectives. Consequently, manuscripts from disciplines other than communication scholarship are also welcomed and appreciated by the journal.

KJC comprehensively addresses a broad spectrum of topical areas, encompassing, but not limited to, Korean pop culture and media studies, language and social interaction, cultural studies, interpersonal communication, organizational communication, advertising, public relations, corporate communication, health communication, communication technology, traditional and new media, communicative social change, international communication, journalism, mass communication, and developmental studies.

Recent Issues

Volume 1, Issue 3, Fall 2024

Research Articles

Incorporating VR into Tourism Advertising: The Effects of Immersion and Spatial Distance on Destination Image  by Jihoon (Jay) Kim

Abstract: Given the increasing dependence of marketers on interactive advertising formats, particularly
virtual reality (VR), to promote travel-related products and services, assessing how these
formats help promote the ad message is important. Using construal level theory and immersion
as a theoretical framework, we explored how a VR experience influenced the perception of a tour
destination and analyzed the interplay between spatial distance and virtual tourism through an
experimental study (N = 90). Findings revealed that (a) engaging in a VR tour made the destination
image more favorable, (b) a significant two-way interaction effect on the destination image emerged
between immersion level and spatial distance, and (c) consumers exposed to concrete hotel information
exhibited a more favorable attitude toward the hotel than those exposed to abstract hotel
information. Theoretical and managerial implications are examined and discussed.

Women’s Emerging Empowerment: An Analysis of Workplace Cultural Dimensions in K-Dramas, 2016–2022         by Susan Grantham and Liana Dunnell

Abstract: K-dramas have grown in popularity globally in recent years. Cultivation analysis studies
have found that heavy viewers and binge-watchers of television shows are more likely to perceive the
real world in a way that is commonly depicted in those shows. Consequently, viewers’ perceptions
of South Korea may be impacted by watching K-dramas and our understanding of cultural practices
in South Korea may be influenced. Using Hofstede’s cultural dimensions as a framework, this study
reviewed nine K-drama series available for viewing following the 2015 feminist reboot, and implementation
of the 2019 gapjil (갑질) laws, to evaluate how women were portrayed in their workplaces in
these series. The results indicate that the K-dramas reflected the social change taking place in South
Korea. Between 2016 and 2022, harassment and bullying of the lead female character (LFC) in the
series declined. Additionally, the LFCs were more willing to take on business risks and to emphasize
their individuality and own well-being.

Influences on Public Sector Employees’ Embrace of Open Government Data: A Step Forward in Data-Based Administration  by Seula Hwang and Taejun (David) Lee

Abstract: This study explored the strategic utilization of open government data (OGD) as a pivotal
resource for advancing data-based administration, which is a key mechanism for harnessing digital
power. The research involved surveying 700 government and public sector employees, extending
the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model by integrating data literacy,
self-efficacy, and personal innovativeness as precursors to user characteristics and abilities. Findings
indicated that data literacy and self-efficacy boosted anticipated job performance and reduced the
effort necessary for data use, indirectly influencing the behavioral intention to use OGD. However,
personal innovativeness significantly impacted only the expectations of performance. The intention
to adopt a behavior was strongly affected by the expected performance outcomes, the anticipated
effort involved, and the degree of social influence. Interestingly, no relationship was found between
facilitating conditions, which included expectations of organizational and technological support and
the behavioral intention to use OGD. The study argues that the use of OGD should be promoted
through systematic diagnosis and strengthening of data literacy in government organizations, training
programs to improve data literacy, and the creation of a culture of data utilization. Furthermore,
from an organizational communication perspective, the adoption of ICT technologies such as OGD
significantly improves the effectiveness of government objectives by refining communication strategies
and fostering innovation and collaboration within public organizations.

Case Study

Hanbok Pop: The Traditional Culture and the Fabulation of Hallyu in Brazil — by Mariana Pacheco

Abstract: This article analyzes the trend of the traditional Korean garment, hanbok, in Brazil and
its evolving role as a cultural identity symbol. It also examines the symbolic significance of hanbok
in South Korea, where it has become an emblem of the Korean Pop Wave. Additionally, the paper
highlights the connection between Korean residents in Brazil and Brazilians through a case study of
exhibitions held at the Korean Cultural Center in São Paulo. Furthermore, this article discusses how
hanbok functions as a communication medium, fostering connections and establishing a discursive
foundation for a movement that has spread South Korean identity to the Western world.

Commentary

Lack of Policy Discussions on Media Privatization in South Korea: The Case of YTN’s Privatization
by Sunah Lee

Abstract: This commentary discusses the recent privatization of YTN, a South Korean 24-hour
news channel. Through an exploration of the historical and political economic context around YTN
and its relationship with political powers, it highlights the challenges the network faces in maintaining
editorial independence. Based on news articles about the privatization of YTN published by
South Korean media, the commentary points out that public discourse surrounding the topic has
predominantly revolved around political conflicts, lacking in-depth discussions on policies to safeguard
YTN’s editorial autonomy. By presenting these preliminary observations, this commentary
invites scholars to engage in conversations about the South Korean media industry and the policies
needed to preserve journalistic integrity amid privatization efforts.

Volume 1, Issue 2, Summer 2024

Research Articles

Displays of Parasocial Interaction in K-Pop: A ContentAnalysis of YouTube Comments on BTS’s Music Videos — by Emily Flinchum, Enakshi Roy, and Rauf Arif

Abstract: This study explores the prevalence of parasocial interaction between the South Korean
band BTS and their fans. Using content analysis, 1,114 fan comments on BTS’s YouTube videos were
examined. Approximately two-thirds of analyzed comments displayed at least one of the four indicators
of parasocial interaction explored: authenticity, affability, social attraction, and fandom. Furthermore,
there was a significant difference between how parasocial interaction (PSI) indicators
appeared in the music videos compared to the personality-driven nonmusic videos. The music videos
had comments that displayed affability and fandom more frequently, while the personality-driven
nonmusic videos displayed higher amounts of social attraction. Social attraction was also the most
frequently displayed PSI indicator, implying that fans consuming content through YouTube are more
likely to focus on the visual appeal of the content. This research fosters a deeper understanding of
the nature of parasocial interaction between fans and celebrities in the context of online media.

Digital Echoes of Discrimination: Investigating the Reception of Hate Speech Against Korean Chinese in Online Communities — by Sangil Jung and Donggyu Kim

Abstract: This study aims to investigate the circulation, consumption, and learning of anonymous
users’ hatred in online communities, focusing on the reception process of hate speech targeting
Korean Chinese people, a group long discriminated against by native Koreans and the media. It identifies
critical factors shaping attitudes toward Korean Chinese (i.e., Chaoxianzu), defining hate as longterm
sentiments resulting from repeated immediate emotions triggered by specific incidents and
social identities. This study adopts a grounded theory approach, employing interviews to construct
a paradigm model that captures the authentic perspectives of online community users. Following
the coding process, 17 categories and 38 subcategories emerged. Online audiences consolidate or
maintain their attitudes through admission, resistance, exploration, and reproduction after exposure
to hate expressions toward Korean Chinese. Self-intervention, personal experience, quality of verbal
stimulation, and patriotism function as interventional conditions or environmental contexts throughout
this process.

Managing Negative WOM on Social Media: Impact of Accommodative Versus Defensive Strategies, Reputation, and Communication Style on Consumer Responses — by Yeonsoo Kim

Abstract: This study examined optimal strategies for companies managing negative social media
comments, viewing these situations as public relations opportunities to build relationships and
reduce negative word of mouth. Utilizing SCCT and attribution theory and public relations literature
on two-way communication and relationship building, a 2 x 2 x 2 full factorial experiment was
conducted with consumer samples. Results show that effective management of negative comments
on social media can build stakeholder relationships and yield positive outcomes. However, the effectiveness
of the response strategy depends on the company’s existing reputation. For companies
with a positive reputation, a defensive strategy is more effective in reducing perceived responsibility,
whereas, for those with a poor reputation, response strategy choice has minimal impact. Two-way
communication enhances external attribution, which is especially beneficial for disreputable companies
using a defensive strategy. External attribution positively influences trust and satisfaction, ultimately
affecting corporate outcomes.

Commentary

Immersion: The New Frontier in Parasocial Relationships — by T. Phillip Madison

Abstract: Once relegated to a subfield of academic communication research, discussions of parasocial
relationships (PSRs) are increasingly diffusing through popular media for consumption and pondering
by much larger audiences. In the same technological moment, virtual reality (VR) represents
a transformative technology that immerses users in computer-generated environments, offering
multisensory experiences through video, audio, and haptic feedback. This essay explores some of
the avenues in which traditional parasocial research might intersect and be applied to immersive VR
experiences. PSRs have great potential to advance our understanding of the effects of VR on ourselves
and our relationships with others, both real and mediated.

Voice from the Field

Korean Ethnic Newspapers at a Crossroads — by Yoonho Nahm

Abstract: Ethnic and local news media face critical challenges due to the loss of traditional subscribers
and relatively fewer resources in comparison with national and global news media companies.
Responding to the changing news media market and environment, this article deals with the
current challenges of ethnic news media and projects some possible future plans.

Volume 1, Issue 1, Spring 2024

Editorial

Beyond Boundaries: Forging New Pathways for Korean Communication Research
by Do Kyun David Kim and Yeonsoo Kim

Research Articles

Dramaturgical Analysis of Smiles in Intercultural Communication Between Korean Students and Native English Speakers — by Do Kyun David Kim

Abstract:  This study analyzes the use of a smile exposed by those who speak English as a second language when they communicate with native English speakers. Based on Erving Goffman’s dramaturgy perspective, this study specifically investigates communication between Korean students at three U.S. universities and native English speakers. Based on interviews with 48 Korean students, this study reveals the underlying structure of their impression management, which articulated the use of smiling in intercultural communication. The discussion includes theoretical analyses of the smiles displayed by second-language users, along with the implications of smiles that can be interpreted differently in different situations. This study will contribute not only to studies dealing with intercultural communication among people with different native languages but also to the theoretical expansion of dramaturgy to the intercultural and international communication context.

Cultivating a D&I Climate in the Workplace and Mitigating Microaggression Against Asian Employees: The Role of Strategic D&I Leadership and Motivating Language — by Yeonsoo Kim

Abstract:  The study addresses the D&I (diversity and inclusion) climate and microaggression challenges in workplaces from the perspective of Asian employees in the United States. Building on strategic leadership literature and motivating language theory, the research posits that strategic D&I leadership and leaders’ motivational language can positively impact the D&I-related perceptions of Asian employees at work. A nationwide survey of Asian employees was conducted. The findings indicated that strategic D&I leadership both directly and indirectly promotes a positive D&I environment, diminishes microaggressions against minority employees, and strengthens organizational trust. Leaders’ motivating language further aids in supporting D&I and diminishing microaggressions. The study’s implications and limitations are further discussed.

Platform Fans: Contradictory Practices of K-Pop Fandom and the Digital Public Sphere — by Samantha James

Abstract:  This article investigates the notion of an idealized digital public sphere by illustrating the contradiction between the supportive and subversive mediated communication practices of international K-pop fans across social media platforms. Fans subvert historic mass media communication practices by using social media to make their voices heard. However, they simultaneously engage in platform-mediated communication practices that uphold the status quo, doing what production companies, popular opinion, and even other fans expect them to do. Despite new communication-mediating platforms allowing fans to self-govern, create fan economies, and influence their own public opinion, the platformization of K-pop fandom has not demonstrated an idealized digital public sphere. The platformization of the K-pop industry is integral to its viability and global success, and by understanding how K-pop fans communicate online and offline, scholars can learn more about other increasingly globalized, hybridized, and platformized organizing practices and the digital public sphere.

Commentary

Academic Convergences in Korean Communication Studies — by Dal Yong Jin

Abstract: In the early 21st century, Korean communication has become one of the most vibrant in the global communication sphere. Due to the recent surge of Korean popular culture and digital technologies, media scholars and global media outlets have attempted to analyze why and how Korea has advanced numerous communication fields in such a short time. This article attempts to develop new perspectives to reflect the ever-changing media ecology. It offers some normative ideas to deal with these new challenges, which may provide some guidance to scholars who study Korean communication.

The KACA Looks Ahead to the Next Century With the Korean Journal of Communication — by Jin-Ae Kang

Abstract:  The Korean American Communication Association (KACA) celebrates the inauguration of the Korean Journal of Communication (KJC). The essay describes the journey undertaken by the KACA leadership to transform the vision of launching this journal into a tangible reality. This essay also reiterates the role the journal plays as a central hub for Korean communication scholarship, for not only the members of the KACA but also a wider audience.

Submissions

Thank you for submitting your paper to us. The instructions below will help you understand the submission requirements for your paper to move smoothly in our peer review, production, and publication processes. Please take some time to read them carefully and follow these instructions, as doing so will ensure your paper is reviewed without any delay.

Structure

Your paper should be structured in the following order:

  1. Title page: The title of your article, abstract (100 ~150 words), and five keywords
  2. Main text:
  3. References: Follow the 7th edition of the APA Publication Manual
  4. Figures and Tables with captions in order of presentation in the main text (as appropriate).

Word Limits

Original Research Articles

A typical original research article for this journal should be between 6,000 and 9000 words, including references, figure captions, and endnotes.

Book Reviews

A book review should be at most 2000 words, including references and any necessary components.

Commentaries / Scholarly Opinions

If you have any insight contributing to academic research and analysis, you can submit a paper with approximately 2000 words, including references and any necessary components.

Field Note / Data Analysis

If you want to report a scholarly field note and academically valid data analysis, you can submit it with a clear indication of the purpose of your paper. It would be shorter than an original research paper, with approximately 4000 words, including references and necessary components (e.g., figures and tables).

Style and Format

Please use the 7th edition of APA Publication Manual for all parts of your paper. All papers should be submitted in Word format (.doc or .docx).

It is the author’s responsibility to keep the laws related to copyrights. Therefore, we don’t accept any manuscript that violates copyright laws and has a conflict of interest.

All manuscript submissions should be made through the following link:  KJC Manuscript Submissions

Peer-Review Process and Publication Ethics

Articles submitted to the Korean Journal of Communication are initially reviewed by the editors, who determine whether the manuscript will be sent to outside reviewers. If chosen for review, the manuscript is then evaluated in a double-blind process by at least two and usually three external reviewers, including members of the journal’s Editorial Board and other experts in relevant fields as selected by the editors. This peer review process ensures that the Korean Journal of Communication publishes only original, accurate, and timely articles that contribute new knowledge, insights, or valuable perspectives to our discipline.

Evaluation

Reviewers play a vital role in ensuring the quality of papers published in the journal.

Questions addressed by reviewers include:

  • Is the topic within the scope of the journal?
  • Is the topic significant or sufficiently interesting to warrant publication?
  • Is the scholarship adequately documented, and is relevant literature reviewed?
  • Are the research aims and any methodological choices made by the author clear and justified?
  • Is the article well-organized and clearly written?

Reviewers make one of three recommendations: acceptance, acceptance with revision, or rejection. In addition, reviewers are asked to include comments explaining the recommendation to provide authors with timely feedback to improve the article. We aim to create a constructive process that benefits the journal and the authors while respecting the time and efforts of all volunteer reviewers.

Review Timetable

We understand that the timeliness of decisions and publication is a significant concern of authors. The typical manuscript is reviewed by one of the editors and sent to reviewers within two weeks after submission. Reviewers typically have six weeks to prepare their review (a second round of reviews may be solicited if the initial reviewers disagree). Then a couple of weeks are typically required to reconcile reviewer comments (and identify any significant copyediting issues for papers that were accepted or accepted with slight revisions). Thus, an author could hear back in less than two months from submission. However, the realities of the peer-review process sometimes extend our timeline. You will receive a response as expeditiously as possible. If you seek publication for a tenure packet, please allow ample review time and let us know if this is a consideration. Authors receive the reviewers’ comments and are often asked to revise the manuscript in line with the reviewers’ and editors’ suggestions. If the revised article is accepted for publication, the editor determines the journal issue in which it will appear. Authors can help speed the process by ensuring they follow the submission requirements and, if accepted, address the reviewer’s comments and any copy-editing needs promptly.

 

Statement of Publication Ethics

The editor(s) and the editorial board of the Korean Journal of Communication are committed to the following:

  • We will do our best to ensure that our peer-review processes and editorial decisions are fair and unbiased and that manuscripts are judged solely on their merits by individuals with appropriate expertise in the subject area.
    • We have the right to reject a manuscript at any point in the process if, after an unbiased evaluation, it is the opinion of the editor(s) that it does not align with the journal’s mission or editorial policies or would be in conflict with the journal’s legal requirements.
  • We will treat submitted manuscripts as confidential documents and will not discuss them or share information with anyone outside the editorial staff, editorial board, potential reviewers, or the publisher.
  • We expect transparency from editors and reviewers regarding potential conflicts of interest and will assign manuscripts to individuals who are not likely to have such conflicts.
  • We expect authors to help us uphold our ethical standards by
    • submitting only original works;
    • respecting the intellectual property rights of others;
    • adhering to the journal’s policies regarding simultaneous submissions;
    • acknowledging sources;
    • appropriately crediting all authors, other research participants, and funding sources;
    • disclosing any potential conflicts of interest; and
    • notifying the editors and/or publisher of any significant errors discovered after submission or publication.
  • We will promptly investigate any credible allegation of unethical or illegal practices related to an article we have published. When warranted, we will issue corrections, retractions, and/or apologies, working with the author(s) as appropriate to find the best resolution.
  • Concerns may be reported directly to the editor(s) or publisher by email at koreancommunication@gmail.com

Association

The Korean American Communication Association (KACA) is an organization dedicated to serving the academic and social needs of communication scholars and students in North America and around the world. The KACA encourages and facilitates cooperation among members in conducting research in communication, especially focusing on subjects related to Korea, Korean Americans, and Korean diaspora.

Additional information about KACA, including how to become a member, can be found on their website.

Editorial Board

Editorial Board

Jiyoung Cha
San Francisco State University

Jee Young Chung
University of Arkansas

Sungeun Chung
Sungkyunkwan University

William Davie
University of Louisiana at Lafayette

James Dearing
Michigan State University

Kyung Jung Han
California State University, Bakersfield

Soo Jung Hong
National University of Singapore

Yangsun Hong
University of New Mexico

Sam James
Auburn University

Jason Jarvis
Loyola Marymount University

Hyeri Jung
Eastern University

Jin-Ae Kang
East Carolina University

Nur Kareelawati Abd Karim
Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia

Kerk Kee
Texas Tech University

William Kelvin
Florida SouthWestern State College

Do Kyun David Kim
University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Gooyong Kim
Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

Ji Won Kim
City University of Hong Kong

Ji Young Kim
University of Hawai‘i at Manoa

Jiyoun Kim
University of Maryland

Minji Kim
Flagler College

Nakho Kim
Penn State University Harrisburg

Soojin Kim
University of Technology Sydney

Taehyun Kim
California State University, Northridge

Yeonsoo Kim
University of Texas-Austin

Gary Kreps
George Mason University

Jonalou S. Labor
University of the Philippines Diliman

Eun Young Lee
Central Washington University

Sangwon Lee
New Mexico State University

Carolyn A. Lin
University of Connecticut

Phillip Madison
University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Sundeep Muppidi
University of Hartford

Kent A. Ono
University of Utah

Uchenna Onuzulike
Bowie State University

Jihyun Esther Paik
Texas Christian University

Paro Pain
University of Nevada, Reno

Hanna Park
Sun Moon University

David Perlmutter
Texas Tech University

YoungJu Shin
George Washington University

Deborah N. Simorangkir
Swiss German University

Arvind Singhal
University of Texas at El Paso

Rachel Son
East Carolina University

Eun Ho Yeo
Plymouth State University

Sungbin Youk
Ewha Woman’s University

Editorial Assistants

Seulgi Park
University at Albany SUNY

Becky Pham
University of Southern California