Network, channel, and geographical proximity of knowledge transfer: the case of university-industry collaboration in South Korea

Abstract

We have analysed the relationship between geographical proximity and academics’ formal and informal knowledge-transfer activities in the network based on a mixed research method. With social network analysis as a basis, we have explored the networks between academics and firms in the 16 regions of Korea. According to the results, Seoul and Gyunggi are identified as central nodes. That is to say, the academics in other regions tend to collaborate with firms in these regions. In order to confirm the localisation of knowledge-transfer activities, we carry out a econometric analysis. In contrast to the results in the previous studies, intensity of formal channels as measured by the number of papers is negatively and significantly related to geographical proximity. However, we do not find any significant relationship between formality of channels and geographical proximity. Possibly, a highly-qualified collaboration tends to overcome geographical barriers, as academics are more interested in papers than in patents. In conclusion, regional innovation systems in Korea is not ripe enough enjoy localisation effect.