Analyzing the influence of Korean cultural characteristics on hierarchical orientation

This study investigates the effects of nunchi at the individual level and cultural tightness at the collective level on representational momentum. It further examines a mediation model in which representational momentum influences hierarchical orientation through perceived control and flexible role orientation. The analysis employed a factorial design based on the MO-ABC framework, incorporating the intersection of individual and collective cultural variables. The mediation model was grounded in the theory of attitude– behavior consistency. The results indicate that both individual-level nunchi and collective-level tightness significantly influence representational momentum. Moreover, their interaction effect on representational momentum was also statistically significant. In addition, the hypothesized mediation model—where representational momentum affects hierarchical orientation through perceived control and flexible role orientation—was supported by the data. Based on these findings, the study discusses theoretical and institutional implications related to cultural characteristics specific to Korean society.