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Trade Unions and Workers’ Life Satisfaction in South Korea

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  • Yong-Woo Lee

    (Yeungnam University)

Abstract

This study analyses the effects of trade unions’ presence in workplaces and union membership on workers’ overall life satisfaction. We estimate a correlated random effects panel ordered probit model using the Korean Labor and Income Panel Study. While the presence of unions increases the probability of reporting a higher level of overall life satisfaction, union membership has no effect. These effects exist only for healthy men who are employed on a permanent contract. Finally, we show that unions’ effects on life satisfaction have four mediating channels—job satisfaction, social security, real wage and fringe benefits.

Suggested Citation

  • Yong-Woo Lee, 2022. "Trade Unions and Workers’ Life Satisfaction in South Korea," Applied Research in Quality of Life, Springer;International Society for Quality-of-Life Studies, vol. 17(1), pages 277-298, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:ariqol:v:17:y:2022:i:1:d:10.1007_s11482-020-09892-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s11482-020-09892-5
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