Decentralized identity (DID): new technology adoption and diffusion in South Korea

Purpose This study aims to study the role of co-production among heterogenous actors to achieve a digital transformation for public service delivery. The importance of building legitimacy and public value creation during the journey of adopting new technology is mainly discussed through analyzing the case of blockchain-based decentralized identity (DID) in South Korea (Korea). Design/methodology/approach Using a qualitative method, the conceptual framework for this study draws on public value theory that highlights co-production approaches on adoption and diffusion of new information system. Findings The results of this study provide empirical support for the claim that co-constructive and cross-sector partnership is critical to the adoption of blockchain-based DID and to maximize the value-in-use and increase citizens’ participation. Originality/value This study suggests a new perspective, which contributes to the information system literature and the phenomenological analysis by investigating co-constructive partnership among cross-sector organizations through the legitimacy-building process, which has not been much empirically researched.