Who Becomes a Fisherman? A Two-Stage Sample Selection Analysis on Small-Scale Fishery Choice and Income in Korea

The sustainability of coastal communities is emerging as a primary topic in policy groups. In Korea, the multifunctionality of small-scale fisheries is being emphasized, and the government has attempted various policies, such as the promotion of in-migration and the fishery industry. However, despite the diverse alternatives, the population and fisheries have been continuously downsizing. This trend threatens the sustainability and pluralistic values of coastal communities. This study identifies the crucial determinants needed to expand small-scale fisheries and enhance the economic motivation for sustainable coastal communities. The analysis is conducted with a two-stage Heckman selection model using the Korea Fishery Census and the Agricultural Census. The estimation results show that the socioeconomic incentives and performance of fisheries in coastal areas are limited. In particular, although the policy pays attention to young, highly educated, and in-migrant groups, it seems to have a limited preference for small-scale fisheries due to economic, societal, and institutional constraints. On the other hand, the family-oriented fishing activities and self-governance unique to fishing villages in Korea could improve the multifunctionality of small-scale fisheries in Korea. In addition, when a fishery household engages in production and sales activities as a member of a fraternity or collective wholesale contract, economic outcomes significantly increase. The results suggest that it is necessary to sustain communal socioeconomic activities by opening up communities and adjusting specific operating systems of self-governance.