Examining diversification of action learning practice in Korea

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the formation of the Korean Action Learning Association (KALA), this is a perfect time to look back on action learning practice in Korea to look forward to the future. We used the concept of diversification to capture the phenomenon that has made noticeable differences in the evolution of action learning practice in Korea after having concentrated on the use of action learning in the business sector before the formation of the KALA in 2005. We examined the diversification of action learning practice in Korea based on an analysis of narratives of 17 action learning practitioners and the review of 246 presentations from the annual action learning conference proceedings 2005–2024 to triangulate the interview data. Using a SWOT analysis, we presented strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of action learning practice in Korea and discussed the challenges that would be helpful to make it sustainable. Based on the findings, we highlight the significance of the study, provide implications for research and practice, and discuss the study limitations.