This study aimed to examine the growth of social enterprises, their operational diversity and impact, and their characteristics from the stakeholders’ perspective focusing on the diversity and influence of social enterprises in the Republic of Korea. Based on data from periodical reports, newspaper articles, and the existing academic literature, this study provides insights into the diversity and influence of social enterprises in Korea. This study suggests that the growth of Korean social enterprises is rooted in extensive government support, including financial subsidies, tax benefits, and technological innovation incentives. We found that the landscape includes officially recognized social enterprises and other entities that, while not formally certified, fulfill similar roles by embodying social values within diverse institutional frameworks. These enterprises have diversified to engage various social issues, from job creation for marginalized groups to environmental sustainability and community development. Effective stakeholder engagement fostered diversity and inclusiveness within these organizations. A limitation of this study is the use of secondary sources. Future research should use more diverse data collection methods and examine a broader range of social enterprises, including non-certified ones. This study contributes to the discourse on social enterprise by highlighting the trajectory of social enterprise development, the critical role of government support, and the importance of stakeholder engagement to promote diversity. It also provides insights into the diversity and role of social enterprises in Korea and their potential to address socio-economic issues.