Governance in Korean Nonprofits: Finding Structures of Trust and Collaboration

 "Can a nonprofit organization rely solely on good intentions to ensure sustainability?"

 

Korean nonprofit organizations are actively working at the forefront of social problem-solving.

Yet internally, they still face deep questions about governance.

 

In the context of nonprofits, governance is more than just how a board operates or how decisions are made.

It reflects the relational structure of an organization — how decisions are made together, responsibilities are shared, and trust is built.

Key Issues in Governance of Korean Nonprofits

 

In nonprofits, “how we work together” often matters more than “what we do.”

 

Korean nonprofits exist in various forms, including foundations, associations, civic organizations, and social cooperatives.

Legally, most are structured around a board of directors, but in practice, boards often only participate in formal decision-making or lack deep involvement in operations.

 

In some cases, boards exist in name only.

When boards fail to lead strategic decisions or lack diversity and expertise, governance becomes unbalanced, weakening the organization’s sustainability.

 

Many nonprofits still rely on traditional vertical governance structures.

While this allows for faster decision-making, it can reduce internal democracy, member engagement, and sense of ownership.

 

Younger generations entering the workforce today prefer horizontal structures where their voices are freely heard.

This highlights the need for governance models that reflect both organizational characteristics and generational preferences.

 

Movements Toward Change

 

Recently, many organizations have recognized these challenges and begun experimenting with new governance structures.

Some nonprofits are implementing Collaborative Governance, where boards, staff, donors, and volunteers participate together to guide operations and address issues.

 

These approaches strengthen trust and transparency within the organization,

increase autonomy and accountability among members,

and boost engagement and motivation.

Ultimately, they create healthier organizational cultures and expand the idea of “good governance” in practice.

From Good Intentions to Good Practices

 

Governance in nonprofits is not just a management system — it is a way to realize values.

True social innovation often starts not with external projects or campaigns but with internal democracy.

 

Korean nonprofits continue to explore and experiment with ways to do “good work” in good ways.

 

Governance goes beyond meetings and formal systems.

It is about building a culture of trust, making decisions together, and growing together.

 

These efforts have the potential to extend beyond individual organizations, fostering a broader culture of trust and collaboration throughout Korean society.