Political construction of risk perception and preventive behaviour during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Republic of Korea

Abstract

Background The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the complex interactions between politics and public health, as political ideologies shape risk perception and adherence to safety measures worldwide. In South Korea, the shift from a progressive to a conservative government administration during the pandemic presents a unique opportunity to examine how risk perception and compliance with preventive measures vary under different political regimes. Methods We used secondary data from a representative South Korean polling company. Biweekly repeated cross-sectional surveys were conducted 80 times over three years (February 2020-April 2023), capturing citizens' perceptions during the regime change. We analysed time-series trends in risk perception and preventive intentions. We conducted cross-sectional analyses on surveys collected under the two administrations to explore how political affiliation influenced risk perception and behaviour. These analyses provide insights into the interaction between political alignment and individuals' risk perceptions and preventive actions. Results Korean citizens who shared the same political views as the central government tended to trust the government's handling of the pandemic more. As a result, they perceived less risk and engaged in fewer preventive behaviours. Rather than changes in specific quarantine policy, Korea's case represents intergroup polarisation driven by political affiliation. We revealed compelling evidence of political influence on risk perception and behaviour, offering valuable insights for addressing politicised issues in future pandemics. Conclusions The findings of this study suggest that COVID-19 has become a political issue not only between two hostile political parties but also among individuals with different political preferences. Therefore, when striving for collaborative problem-solving, caution must be exercised against politicising the issues as witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic. These politicised subjects may result in criticising the other party through prejudicial criticism, as well as refraining from making efforts to find common values.