Campaign Strategy of Interest Groups in Korea: The Case of the 14th Presidential Election

Abstract

Abstract: Through the process of democratization after the mid- 1980s, the various interests which had not been expressed under the rule of authoritarian government are being expressed actively by interest groups. Active participation in the election process is one of their important methods to influence the political process for their interests. The purpose of this paper is to examine how major Korean interest groups established and carried out their strategies to express their interests throughout the 14th presidential election, and to explore their effectiveness. As expected, only a few limited interest groups established strategic ends and systematically worked to accomplish them during the 14th presidential election. Their election strategies remain at the infant stage compared with that of the interest groups in advanced countries. However, Korean interest groups have potential to play an active and systematic role in coming elections, considering the internal and external factors effecting interest group politics. Interest groups in Korea should overcome their allergic attitudes toward political activities and recognize that the election is a good chance to express interests. At the same time, other political actors should encompass the interest groups’ normal activities including activities for the election. It is essential to establish permanent communication channels between the interest groups and other political actors.