2004 Public Opinion Survey on Social Trust Questionnaire

Purpose of the Survey

This survey aims to examine whether Koreans are building trust in national institutions and fostering trust in the market by overcoming the barriers of closed, pre-modern particularism, such as kinship, alumni networks, and regional ties. It also includes a diverse range of groups, from government and military to large corporations, media organizations, labor unions, and civic groups, to analyze whether the "powerful" entities that exert influence throughout society are indeed receiving public trust. The objective was to develop a trust-influence index that tracks whether public trust in each group is as high as its influence. The survey results are expected to serve as an opportunity to teach the public about the limitations of particularism and to strengthen the resolve of each group to regain trust.

EAI commenced preparatory work for this purpose in July 2004. Professor Lee Jae-youl (Department of Sociology, Seoul National University) played a central role in reviewing existing research and developing new survey questions. The questionnaire comprised a total of 38 items, and Korea Research conducted the survey using the interview method from November 19 to December 12, 2004, with the sponsorship of the Hankook Ilbo. The survey targeted 1,000 valid samples, with a margin of error of ±3.1% at a 95% confidence level.

Survey Methodology

Target Population: Adult men and women aged 20 and over

Survey Region: Nationwide

Valid Samples: 1,000

Survey Method: In-person interviews

Margin of Error: ±3.1 percentage points (95% confidence level)

Survey Dates: November 29 - December 11, 2004

Sponsor: Hankook Ilbo

Planning and Analysis: EAI