Risk perception in Korea: a comparison with Japan and the United States

Using a psychometric paradigm, this study examines cross-cultural similarities and differences in the risk perceptions of three samples (Korea, Japan and the United States), through a comparison of 70 environmental risks. The results show that the three samples have a similar two-factor structure and two higher order factors ­ 'dread risk' and 'unknown risk' ­ structure risk perceptions of the 70 risks. The results also indicate that differences in the perceptions of specific risks are significant. Speculations for these differences are discussed.