Country statistics Republic of Korea ¦ A relatively creative sample group with many companies making efforts to inform readers about their position in the marketplace. Although, overall, the reports in the Republic of Korea are not as polished as their counterparts in more developed reporting economies, such as Europe, what they lacked in measurable content they certainly made up for with inspiration. Like the Indian reports, many in the sample group contained very inspirational statements with themes such as ‘inspire the world’, ‘create the future’, ‘outstanding to outperform’, and ‘value to transform life’. The difference being that the Republic of Korea reports provided case studies to evidence these themes and reinforce messages of globalisation, innovation and sustainable growth. These reports, without a doubt, were the most creative in terms of their approach to communication and used design heavily to improve accessibility and engagement. This approach gives one the sense that they are serious about how they are portrayed and presented in the international marketplace. The majority of the reports also seem to achieve a balance in terms of qualitative data to statements made about their priorities and policies. Although the Korean reports were some of the smallest in the overall sample group, the focus certainly Key statistics 86% have a clear statement of overall vision 57% mention a particular sustainability element in the vision 86% of companies report on non-financial issues in the Annual Report 29% attempt to integrate nonfinancial issues throughout the report 57% present some form of nonfinancial performance data seems to be on quality rather than quantity, something which companies from other nations would do well to take note of. The emphasis on people, particularly senior management, in evidencing the strength of the strategic vision and objectives and management’s plans for action stood out among the sample group. This follows through to the presentation of nonfinancial material within the report which is often focused on customers and people. Key highlights • Creatively one of the strongest nations in the sample group with many stepping away from traditional photography. • Many reports outline their vision for the future, for example: ‘creating another success story for shareholders, customers and society’. • Many support this clear vision with a sound management strategy. • Profile of senior management. • Emphasis on people – often profiled through the report to tell a story. Average report length Average length of narrative Average length of financials Number of ‘integrated’ reports 135 pages 70 pages 77 pages 0 out of 7 reports 12 Towards Global Sustainability A country by country review of the international integrated reporting landscape