• Journal of Korea Trade
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• v.26 no.4
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• pp.63-82
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• 2022

Purpose - Drawing on relational institutional theory, we explored how demographic similarity between board members of a firm and newly emerged political elites led to firms' increased financial resource acquisition such as leverage ratio and decreased export intensity amidst the Asian financial crisis. We also studied how a firm's leverage ratio and export intensity can further affect firm profitability and financial credit rating. Design/methodology - We revisited and explored a unique, unprecedented crisis that affected most Korean firms: the Asian financial crisis that coincided with a governmental shift from a conservative to a liberal party. We collected demographic information from 432 listed Korean firms' board members and 43 political elites of the Blue House from 1998-2000 to create a demographic similarity measurement. We collected firms' financial information, built panel data, and used ordinary least squares regression to test our theory. Findings - Our results showed that demographic similarity between a firm's directors and newly emerged politicians had a positive association with a firm's leverage ratio but a negative association with a firm's export intensity. A firm's leverage ratio had a negative relationship with firm performance measured by firm profitability and financial credit rating. A firm's export intensity showed a positive effect on firm performance. Originality/value - We highlighted that during an economic crisis that coincided with a governmental shift and change of leading political actors, firms exerted efforts to survey the environment and build new external stakeholder relationships to cope with the changing landscape. We proposed that in an emerging market like Korea where low levels of trust and favoritism are prevalent across society, one of the relational institutional strategies that firms can employ is the selection of directors with similar demographic characteristics to political elites based on factors including birthplace and school affiliations. We examined the efforts of firms to build political networks with newly empowered political elites during a financial crisis, and the consequences of establishing such networks. We highlighted that during a financial crisis, the demographic similarity between a firm's board members and newly emerged politicians can provide firms with access to financial resources but can also result in poor management and reduced effort to enhance its international competitiveness.

• Korean Journal of Environmental Agriculture
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• v.41 no.1
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• pp.65-70
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• 2022

BACKGROUND: The Geomunoreum Lava Tube System (GLTS) is both vast and culturally valuable. The Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes, which are partly composed of the GLTS, have been declared as a United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site. Exploration of the caves is strictly regulated to conserve these vulnerable environments. Photographs provide limited information and do not describe the entire environment comprehensively. Therefore, we created several illustrations of the lava tubes to display their environmental features. METHODS AND RESULTS: We explored six lava caves (upstream and downstream) in the GLTS and photographed their geological features and yellow walls, the colors of which are influenced by microbial mats. We compared the hex codes of the wall colors using the Clip Studio v1.10.5 software and created illustrations that accurately represent the scale and features of the caves. CONCLUSION(S): Upstream and downstream caves of the GLTS differ in scale and volcanic features. We illustrated various characteristics of the caves including lava cave features, vegetation, and microbial mats. We also described the internal and external cave environments.

• Proceedings of the Plant Resources Society of Korea Conference
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• 2023.04a
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• pp.23-23
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• 2023

The Hairy labrador tea (Ledum palustre L. var. diversipilosum Nakai) is a evergreen small shrub, belonging to the Ericaceae and mainly distributed along the alpine areas of Hamgyeong-do in North Korea. Through seed physiological research on North Korean plants, we intend to obtain basic data for the development of mass propagation methods and use them for vegetation restoration. The internal and external morphological characters of the seed were observed using scanning electron microscopy or stereoscopy, and full seeds were selected through X-ray test. Seeds were cultured on a growth condition at 15/6℃ and 25/15℃ to examine the germination response according to temperature, and the number of germinated individuals was examined every 24 hours to calculate germination percentage and mean germination time. Low-temperature treatment (4℃) and hormone treatment (GA3) were performed to investigate the effect of dormancy breaking, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed on the experimental results using SAS 9.4. The seeds of the Hairy labrador tea were elliptical-narrow in shape, and the epidermal cell wall pattern was reticulated. The final germination rate (FGP) was the highest at 58.9% under the condition of low temperature treatment at 25/15℃. The average number of days to germination (MGT) was the highest at 25.1 days without treatment at 15/6℃, and the average of the last germination days was confirmed to be about 13 days. As a result of low temperature treatment, it was confirmed that the final germination rate (FGP) increased by 43.3%. The significance of the final germination rate (FGP) was verified according to the pretreatment at 25/15℃.

• Korean Journal of Environment and Ecology
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• v.37 no.6
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• pp.484-498
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• 2023

This study aimed to analyze the appropriateness of the criteria and methods of the feasibility study for national park re-planning. The rate of 'release area' was derived at a lower rate in the absolute evaluation (the second) than the relative evaluation(the third) Seoraksan and Juwangsan National Parks as well as Gayasan National Park. Despite the third evaluation method aiming to maintain park area through retention by setting the areas available for release as 10% rather than applying release, it was found that the absolute evaluation method did not derive more areas available for release. When the second and third ecology-based assessments were applied to study sites, both second and third ecological-based assessments showed that the actual release areas were not reflected in the extraction in 2011. Consequently, it was found that the ecological-based assessment was only a means of assistance instead of a means of critical decision-making for determining the release area. From the district adjustment of the park planning easibility study, it can be determined that interactive exchange and priority application of release criteria as external factors acted more significantly.

• Computers and Concrete
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• v.33 no.5
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• pp.535-544
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• 2024

In the rapidly advancing landscape of computer vision (CV) technology, there is a burgeoning interest in its integration with the construction industry. Camera calibration is the process of deriving intrinsic and extrinsic parameters that affect when the coordinates of the 3D real world are projected onto the 2D plane, where the intrinsic parameters are internal factors of the camera, and extrinsic parameters are external factors such as the position and rotation of the camera. Camera pose estimation or extrinsic calibration, which estimates extrinsic parameters, is essential information for CV application at construction since it can be used for indoor navigation of construction robots and field monitoring by restoring depth information. Traditionally, camera pose estimation methods for cameras relied on target objects such as markers or patterns. However, these methods, which are marker- or pattern-based, are often time-consuming due to the requirement of installing a target object for estimation. As a solution to this challenge, this study introduces a novel framework that facilitates camera pose estimation using standardized materials found commonly in construction sites, such as concrete forms. The proposed framework obtains 3D real-world coordinates by referring to construction materials with certain specifications, extracts the 2D coordinates of the corresponding image plane through keypoint detection, and derives the camera's coordinate through the perspective-n-point (PnP) method which derives the extrinsic parameters by matching 3D and 2D coordinate pairs. This framework presents a substantial advancement as it streamlines the extrinsic calibration process, thereby potentially enhancing the efficiency of CV technology application and data collection at construction sites. This approach holds promise for expediting and optimizing various construction-related tasks by automating and simplifying the calibration procedure.

• Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
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• v.35
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• pp.26.1-26.15
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• 2023

Background: The objective of this study is to investigate the differences in incidence rates of targeted diseases by classification of occupations among construction workers in Korea. Methods: In a subject-based cohort of the Korean Construction Worker's Cohort, we surveyed a total of 1,027 construction workers. As occupational exposure, the classification of occupations was developed using two axes: construction business and job type. To analyze disease incidence, we linked survey data with National Health Insurance Service data. Eleven target disease categories with high prevalence or estimated work-relatedness among construction workers were evaluated in our study. The average incidence rates were calculated as cases per 1,000 person-years (PY). Results: Injury, poisoning, and certain other consequences of external causes had the highest incidence rate of 344.08 per 1,000 PY, followed by disease of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue for 208.64 and diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue for 197.87 in our cohort. We especially found that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was more common in construction painters, civil engineering welders, and civil engineering frame mold carpenters, asthma in construction painters, landscape, and construction water proofers, interstitial lung diseases in construction water proofers. Conclusions: This is the first study to systematically classify complex construction occupations in order to analyze occupational diseases in Korean construction workers. There were differences in disease incidences among construction workers based on the classification of occupations. It is necessary to develop customized occupational safety and health policies for high-risk occupations for each disease in the construction industry.

• Journal of the Korean Institute of Traditional Landscape Architecture
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• v.34 no.3
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• pp.78-97
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• 2016

The objectives of this study are to examine the context of the establishment of Suhoe Gugok, Byeokgye Gugok Vally, and Nosan Palkyung, which have been established in Seojong-myeon of Yangpyeong-gun, by literature review and site investigations, and to determine the sceneries of Byeokgye scenic site as enjoyed and managed during the period of Hwaseo Lee, Hang-ro(華西 李恒老). The results of the study are as follows. First, Byeokgye Gugok Vally(黃蘗九曲) and Nosan Palkyung(蘆山八景), which have been established after the period of Hwaseo and theorized to have been established around key scenic areas associated with Hwaseo's activities, the analysis results showed that they were collecting sceneries of modern times. The extensive overlap between Byeokgye Gugok Vally and concentrated scenic elements of Suhoe Gugok(水回九曲), and the artificial configuration from the end point of Suhoe Gugok to the beginning point of Nosan Palkyung, reveal the pattern of space conflict and hegemony between Byeokgyes of Suip-ri and Nomun-ri. This is likely to be caused by the conflict between the historicity of the group that enjoyed Byeokgye prior to Hwaso's period and the strong territoriality of the space filled with the image of Hwaseo. Second, Byeokgye Gugok Vally was the secondary spatial system created by selecting the most scenic sites in Suip-ri while expanding the area of Nosan Palkyung. After establishment of Byeokgye Gugok Vally, the spatial identity of the entire Byeokgyecheon area was effectively established. This was a "Hwaseo-oriented" move, including the complete exclusion of the scenic sites from the pre-Hwaseo period such as Cheongseo Gujang and Suhoe Gugok's Letters Carved on the Rock. Consequently, the entire Byeokgyecheon area was reorganized into a cultural scenic site with Heoseo's influence. Third, Fifth, creations of Gugok(九曲) to determine the lineage of the Hwaseo School from Juja(朱子) to Yulgok(栗谷) to Uam(尤庵) to Hwaseo is likely to be an opportunity of birth and external motivation of the establishment of new Gugok Palkyung. In other words, Nosan Palkyung and Byeokgye Gugok Vally are likely to have been created as a reaction to the change of the center of the Hwaseo School to Okgyedong, and with strategic orientation based on the motivation and needs such as creation of the connecting space between Mui Gugok, Gosan Gugok, and Okgye Gugok, and the elevation of Hwaseo's status. Fourth, from the Hwaseo's Li-centric point of view, all revered sites in Beokwon(蘗園) that he managed existed as the spatial creative work to experience the existence of "li" through the objects in the landscape and the boundary of the spirit of emptiness of the aesthetic self. This clearly shows how Byeokgye Gugok Vally or Nosan Palkyung must be defined, and furthermore, appreciated and approached, prior to discussing it as the space associated with Hwaseo. Fifth, Nosan Palkyung was composed of cultural scenic landscapes of Gokjungkyung(曲中景) with eight scenic sites where Hwaseo gave his teachings and spend time around, in the Byeokgye of Nomun-ri area of Byeokgye Gugok Vally. The sceneries is, however, collected by depending on Hwaseo's Letters Carved on the Rock and poetry. Consequently, an inner exuberance of Nosan Palkyung is satisfied beside Byeokgye Gugok Vally, but its conceptual adequacy leaves room for questions.

• Journal of the Korean Institute of Traditional Landscape Architecture
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• v.31 no.3
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• pp.61-74
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• 2013

This study examined and analyzed ancient writing and poetry regarding cases of appreciating plants by using pots in a garden of a palace or private houses by ancestors, and examined shape and planting method of plant species and potted plants, arrangement and preference of potted plants. As for the method of the study, description research method which examines and interprets poem and painting based on potted plants. The results of this study is summarized like the following. First, the plants which were favorably used for potted plants include 19 kinds such as Prunus mume, Pinus densiflora, Pinus pumila, Phyllostachys spp., Camellia japonica, Punica granatum, and Gardenia jasminoidesa, and as for herbs, 12 kinds such as Chrysanthemum monifolium and Nelumbo nusifera . Second, the species which were specially arranged into artificial shapes include Prunus mume and Pinus densiflora. The two plants made the shape of severe curves of stems such as Wangpi. Gyuban, and Bangan, and there are Pinus densiflora dwarfed potted plant whose roots are stretched on Prunus mume grafted into a strange stump and an oddly shaped stone. For the beauty of the dwarfed tree shape, pine cones are added to an old Pinus densiflora or Parthenocissus tricuspidata is planted to stems, and additional method of making moss on the soil, which is called 'Jongbunchuigyeong'. As for planting method, water culture, planting on a stone, planting on a charcoal, and assembled planting are expressed in poetry. Third, as for external space for potted plants, a place where a king stays, a bed room for a king, surrounding areas and gardens of private houses, and step stones were used as a space which adds artistic effects. Potted plants are placed on a table in a library, on a desk, on a drawer, and near a pillow as a small items in a room, and scholars enjoyed original characteristics and symbolism of the potted plants. Fourth, at the time of flowering of Prunus mume, poetry event was held to enjoy the tree and writing poetry begun. And at the time of flowering of Chrysanthemum monifolium, the flowers were floated in a liquor glass or shadow play was enjoyed. Fifth, potted plants played the role of garden ornaments in elegant events of a palace, the gentry, wedding ceremony, and sacrificial rites. Sixth, potted plants were used as tributes between countries, donation to a king, or a gift of a king. In addition, there were many cases where scholars exchanged potted plants and there is the first record of giving a potted plant in 'Mokeunsigo' by Mokeun Isaek, scholar in the late era of Goryeo. Seventh, at the time of flowering Prunus mume, Chrysanthemum monifolium, Gardenia jasminoides, Nelumbo nusifera, and Narcissustazetta var. chinensis, they enjoyed the particular fragrance and express it into poetry. Eighth, plant species from southern parts such as Camellia japonica, Daphne odora, Gardenia jasminoides, Citrus unshiu, Phyllostachys spp., Punica granatum, Rosa rugosa, and Musa basjoo, or foreign plant species, and species weak against the cold were utilized as pot plants for enjoying green trees indoors in northern central province in harshly cold winter.

• Journal of the Korean Institute of Landscape Architecture
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• v.41 no.3
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• pp.56-71
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• 2013

This study was carried out to investigate the construction background of multi-functional vacant grounds in the rear gardens of Kyeongbok Palace and Kyeongun Palace, by understanding the building history of multi-functional vacant ground during the Joseon Dynasty with a special reference to the places formed in the period of King Kojong. The multi-functional vacant grounds in the Palace were the important element from the political aspect of Joseon Dynasty, and became an infrastructure of a state - run organization. The vacant space between Kwangyeonlu(廣延樓) and Haeonjeong, the whole region of Yeolmujeong(閱武亭), Seochongdae(瑞蔥臺), and Chundangdae(春塘臺) were investigated as the multi-functional places, where the events were held for the royal family in the Changdeok Palace after the establishment of the Joseon Dynasty. Various events such as the archery competition, official examination and military training were held at the places. After the inauguration of King Kojong, Kyeongmudae(京武臺) was made in the process of the reconstruction of the Kyeongbok Palace. The Kyeonghee Palace was used as the off-palace rear garden after the year that King Kojong returned to the Kyeongun Palace. The characteristics of two spaces were to apply the space organization of the Changdeok Palace into the rear garden outside of Sinmumun(神武門), Kyeongmudae at Kyeongbok Palace and the pedestrian overpass was established to connect the spaces efficiently in Kyeonghee Palace. Especially, the multi-functional vacant ground in the rear garden during the period of King Kojong functioned as the place to show off the internal and external independence of a nation and to show the authority and dignity of King at the point of time that accelerated the plundering Joseon Dynasty by Japanese imperialism powers, beyond the meaning of national event space that had existed before, such as official examination or archery test. In addition, the fact that the multi-functional vacant ground used as training place for military exercise where many people were mobilized was considered to reflect the contemporary situation.

• Journal of the Korean Institute of Landscape Architecture
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• v.37 no.2
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• pp.26-35
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• 2009

This study is an analysis of the design changes of children's play facilities and the related rules and regulations which causes these changes. Accordingly, it is noticed that a site's change of design by legislation and by yearly alternation influences playground design. First, after revising the provisions for the distance from roads and parking lots, the constructing of safety fences between play facilities and the using of durable materials, alterations of the designs have been made a reality. Second, the design changes after the period of regulation transitions were caused by provisions related to the shelter of evergreens and conditions of the sun. Third, the changes of the playgrounds were related to the substitution of exercise facilities for the local residents and in carrying out a hygiene exam more than twice a year. Because a lack of regulatory standards for the design of playgrounds resulted in compliance based on individual interpretation and because a substitution of exercise facilities is part of the way to alleviate these regulations, the conditions of the site under investigation could be projeced. By such changes of regulations and analysis of alterations of playground design, programs for improvement were suggested. It turned out that the composition of the concrete standard in conformity with regulations required closer observance. Moreover, design standards for children's playgrounds are needed, such as the provision of variation in external appearance, the creation of more flexible layouts and the outlining of spaces by themes.