| This study examines Korean journalists' perceptions of the relationships between Samsung chaebol and the Korean newspapers through a two-phase research design: (1) in-depth interviews to find out any hidden tactics of Samsung's influence and insights into the issues of newspaper journalists: and (2) an analytical survey of Korean journalists to explore their perceptions in response to Samsung chaebols' pressure. Samsung chaebol, the largest business conglomerate in Korea, was selected as a case study for this research because of its size and long history. It is also quite controversial among the Korean people because of its capability to exercise pressure on news content for its own interests.; The study finds that, according to journalists surveyed, big businesses frequently exert influence on Korean newspapers through various lobbying activities. This pressure has roughly three different forms: the exploitation of the Korean people's need for strong human networks; the use of advertising money for manipulation; and the establishment of wealthy press fellowships for reporters. The study, through scholarly processes, reveals businesses' concealed lobbying tactics toward the media and explores how the Korean journalists challenge them. Finally, this work illustrates the struggle of both Korean journalists and newspaper unions to reject business pressure.; The research shows that business pressure is perceived by reporters as a kind of barrier to freedom of the press in Korean journalism. The study indicates that there is no effective counter-measure against chaebols' pressure because of today's tough market-driven journalism. The press union is widely believed to be the only useful entity to rebuff chaebols' pressure, but there is a certain degree of limitation because of considering company's image and bottom line. |
