Charitable Bribes? The Concealed Form of Corporate Influence and a Road to Greater Transparency Worldwide

Behind the glossy façade of philanthropy, corporations are funneling millions into charities tied to politicians, turning donations into covert power plays. From South Korea’s explosive Choi-gate scandal to U.S. defense contractors funding pet causes of lawmakers, the cases show a global pattern of “charitable bribes” reshaping corruption’s playbook. This investigation reveals how firms dodge scrutiny, distort competition, and why transparency is now the frontline battle in corporate influence. Citation: Jeong, Y., & Siegel, J. 2025. Charitable Bribes? The Concealed Form of Corporate Influence and a Road to  Greater Transparency Worldwide. AIB Insights, 25(4). https:/​/​doi.org/​10.46697/​001c.143042.