Measurement Invariance of the Satisfaction With Life Scale in South Korea

Abstract. This study examined the cross-group and temporal measurement invariance of the Satisfaction With Life Scale in Korea. A nationally representative sample ( N = 13,824) and a convenience sample collected at four-time points over approximately 14 months ( N = 338) were used. Full measurement invariance (i.e., equal factor loadings and intercepts) was supported across groups based on gender, age, education, data collection method (face-to-face versus non-face-to-face), and two alternative translations of the scale. Temporal measurement invariance was also supported. Accordingly, the same underlying construct is measured, and the items of the scale are understood and answered similarly across groups and across time in Korea. Supplemental analysis revealed that Item 5 was not invariant between Korea and Japan, with Korean respondents tending to rate this item higher than Japanese respondents.