Data Sources and Bibliometric Metrics
The 5th edition of the Research.com Best Social Sciences and Humanities Scientists in Korea Ranking is founded on comprehensive data aggregated from leading bibliometric resources. The primary sources include OpenAlex and CrossRef, complemented by multiple additional datasets to ensure breadth and accuracy of scholarly information. All bibliometric data employed to derive citation-based metrics for this ranking were collected on January 12, 2026. A scientist’s position within the ranking is determined by their D-index (Discipline H-index), a metric that exclusively accounts for papers and citation data pertinent to the specific discipline under review.
Scope of Research and Inclusion Criteria
The ranking rigorously examined 279,971 scientist profiles identified across a broad spectrum of bibliometric data sources spanning all disciplines. Within this expansive universe, 20 scientists were specifically evaluated in the Social Sciences and Humanities fields. To qualify for inclusion in the ranking, a researcher must have a D-index of at least 30, with the majority of their tier publications concentrated in Social Sciences and Humanities. Additionally, awards and distinguished achievements within the field were taken into account.
The threshold for the D-index is calibrated in increments of 10, reflecting the estimated total number of scholars in each discipline. This approach ensures that the ranking consistently incorporates the top 1% of leading scholars. Moreover, candidates were required to maintain a proximity margin of 30% or less between their overall H-index and their D-index, reinforcing the discipline-specific relevance of their scientific impact.
Verification Procedures and Methodological Rigor
The researchers responsible for this ranking understand that raw bibliometric data serve only as an initial framework and are not definitive measures for evaluating scholarly output. Accordingly, all scientist profiles were individually and manually verified. This process involved cross-referencing publications across a wide array of reputable sources to authenticate accuracy and relevance.
While the number of papers published in prominent journals and conference proceedings does not directly influence the ranking position, it constitutes a valuable secondary indicator of a scientist’s contributions within their specific area of expertise. Ultimately, the ranking is established using each researcher’s D-index as calculated from data obtained from OpenAlex and CrossRef, currently regarded as the most authoritative and well-curated bibliometric databases available to the research community.
Further details on the comprehensive methodology employed in this ranking can be found on our methodology page.
Research.com’s Mission and Organizational Agenda
Research.com’s core mission in developing this ranking is to inspire researchers, academic institutions, corporations, and policymakers worldwide to closely monitor the trajectories of leading experts. We aim to provide an authoritative resource that identifies top scientists in various countries, disciplines, and institutions, fostering enhanced collaboration and recognition throughout the global scientific community. The meticulous and transparent nature of our work underscores our commitment to advancing scholarly excellence and informed decision-making within the social sciences and humanities.
