Toward the sustainable development of corporate universities: the case of South Korea

Abstract

Purpose

Despite the burgeoning interest in corporate universities (CUs), their pragmatic application and ongoing evolution present challenges. This study aims to analyze the South Korean CU landscape from a balanced perspective to draw implications for the sustainable development of CUs.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a case study method to systematically explore CUs in South Korea by reviewing the South Korean government reports on CUs. The cases of CUs are analyzed based on the holistic model of CUs, which functions as an analytical framework.

Findings

By analyzing four groups of CUs, namely, in-house colleges, corporation colleges, technical colleges and in-house college-type lifelong educational establishments, implemented in South Korea, this study draws implications for the sustainable development of CUs, using the holistic CU model.

Originality/value

By analyzing cases of CUs from a new perspective, this study contributes to expand knowledge on CUs and suggests implications for organizations aiming to establish and sustain their own CUs tailored to their specific needs. Furthermore, this paper delves into the support necessary for the successful implementation and sustainable development of CUs, spanning organizational/team, national and individual levels.