Methodology

Volunteering is increasingly recognized as one of the most accessible ways for individuals
to contribute to building a stronger foundation for the future. In this context, the 2026
National Report on Volunteering in Korea was developed to explore future directions for
expanding participation and enhancing the impact of volunteering. To support this objective,
a survey of approximately 3,000 individuals with varying levels of interest in and experience
with volunteering was conducted to better understand how volunteering is perceived and
experienced in everyday life. Drawing on these findings, the report presents practical insights
for integrating volunteering more fully into daily life. To this end, three research methods
were employed as outlined below.

1. Data Analysis
National trends in volunteer participation over the past decade (2015–2025) were
analyzed using public data sources including Statistics Korea’s Social Survey.

2. In-depth Interviews
In addition to reviewing domestic academic research on volunteering in Korea, in-depth
interviews were conducted with social welfare scholars and volunteer sector practitioners.
Through these interviews, key turning points in the history of volunteering in Korea
were identified, along with insights into changes in volunteer practice and practical
recommendations for policy improvement.

Methodology
3. Public Survey
A survey of 3,162 respondents was conducted to examine their experiences with and
perceptions of volunteering. Based on these experiences and perceptions, the study
sought to more clearly rearticulate the concept, value, and impact of volunteering.
It also comparatively analyzed differences in perceptions according to levels of interest
and prior experience, and carefully considered what strategies would be needed in the
volunteer field to encourage broader public participation.

* A sample of 1,000 individuals aged 15–69 selected based on gender, age, and region of
residence, and 2,162 users of the 1365 Volunteer Portal who had participated in volunteering
within the past three years.