A Study of Welfare Provision and Attitudes Toward Welfare in Business Establishments

Abstract

We examine the distinct features of welfare provision and attitudes toward welfare among Korean businesses. We consider not only the non-statutory welfare that establishments introduce but also statutory welfare costs for operating public social security. Besides, we focus on differences in welfare provision at the establishment level and attitudes toward welfare depending on establishment characteristics, such as the company's size, the type of industry, the composition of employees, and the labor unions. We suggest three policy considerations. First, public social security support for vulnerable workers should be expanded to help them cope with social risks. Second, the role and responsibility of the public in supporting childcare should be strengthened. Third, efforts should be made to enhance support for small businesses. Specifically, even small businesses with a strong demand for skilled workers show a clear willingness to provide welfare. Therefore, it is necessary to find ways to address the challenges of limited human and material resources in these businesses.