BACKGROUND: Second victim experiences of nurses are a critical issue in healthcare. In addition to causing psychological and emotional distress to nurses, second victim experiences can adversely affect organizational performance and overall patient safety. PURPOSE: This study aimed to determine effects of perceived just culture of medical institutions on second victim experiences of nurses after patient safety incidents. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional correlational study. Data were collected from 183 clinical nurses in tertiary general hospitals between December 28, 2022 and January 14, 2023 using an online self-report questionnaire. The questionnaire included items from Just Culture Assessment Tool (JCAT) and Korea-Second Victim Experience and Support Tool (K-SVEST). A hypothetical model was established and tested. Data were analyzed using SPSS WIN 23.0 and AMOS 23.0 programs. RESULTS: The hypothesized model was found to be statistically fit (normed χ CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that a just culture in medical institutions could ameliorate second victim experiences of nurses involved in patient safety incidents. Implementing systemic interventions is a key imperative to establish a just culture in medical institutions, mitigate second victim experiences, and improve organizational performance. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.