ESG 위기론과 공공기관의 지속가능성 전략

In his 2023 paper, “The End of ESG”, Professor Alex Edmans acknowledges the significance of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles but emphasizes that ESG is neither a universal solution nor an approach easily implemented by all organizations. His provocative message offers valuable insights for addressing the challenges faced by public institutions in Korea as they adopt and expand ESG management practices. This study aims to explore strategies for the institutionalization of ESG within Korean public institutions by responding to Edmans’ perspectives through a combination of literature review and case analysis. The analysis identifies several critical issues in the ESG management of Korean public institutions, including: ambiguity in ESG objectives, political interference, lack of reliable ESG evaluation systems, deficiency in ESG management capabilities, and risk of ESG washing. To address these challenges, the study proposes the following strategies: align ESG objectives with institutional missions, minimize political interference, develop tailored ESG evaluation systems, strengthen ESG management competencies, and mitigate ESG washing risks. The study concludes by presenting practical strategies for sustainable ESG implementation and legislative contributions for Korean public institutions.