Abstract

This study was conducted to obtain a better understanding of Korean researchers’ motivations and experience regarding open access publishing. An online survey was conducted with the Korean authors of PLOS ONE, a major open access mega journal (OAMJ). A total of 238 responses were collected; the analysis was based on 202 valid responses. The results of the survey were compared and constrated with the results of a major international study that investigated similar issues. For Korean authors with open access publishing experience, journal impact factor (JIF) is still the most important factor in making publishing decisions. There was a significant difference between general publishing venue decision making versus open access publishing venue decision. Overall, Korean authors are far less satisfied with open access publishing than the authors in the international study. The results suggest comparatively low level of expectation among Korean researchers toward open access publishing. Open access policy and training initiatives are needed to promote open access.