• #Job satisfaction
• #Transformational leadership
• #Leadership development

This study empirically analyzed the impact of transformational and transactional leadership on job satisfaction and the mediating effect of self-efficacy among manufacturing employees in the Busan and Gyeongnam regions. The results showed that both leadership styles positively influenced job satisfaction, with transformational leadership having a greater impact. This suggests that transformational leadership enhances self-efficacy, contributing to increased job satisfaction and organizational performance.