The Rise of the Korean Economy

By Byung-Nak Song

Within thirty years, and despite the aftereffects of colonial rule and devastating war, the Republic of Korea has transformed itself from an agricultural society to a modern industrial power free of debt. This transformation into a major trading nation has attracted worldwide attention. In this important book, a distinguished Korean economist provides an insider's view that traces the economy's development, analyzes the factors and policies that have led to success, draws some 7urprising contrasts with Japan, and identifies problems within the realms of labor, infrastructure, politics, and the role of conglomerates that will have a far-reaching impact on the country's future.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0195853431
• ISBN13: 9780195853438
• Release Date: April 1991
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
• Length: 296 Pages
• Weight: 0.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.5" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Interesting and Educating

The book is a good reference and gives good insight of the Korean economy system and mentality. It is also a good introduction of Korean economy to people who are new to this issue.

A good inside look at Korea's economic growth

There's nothing quite like getting an insider's view. Song provides this, having worked for the Korea Development Institute, and by just having been a Korean living in the country at the time. Most other English language accounts are given by foreigners who have spent a few years in the country, so Song has quite an advantage over them. He does overlook the darker side of the 'miracle' though, but you can find out all about that in a book like 'Troubled Tiger' my Mark Clifford. Bear in mind too, that Song is an academic, and so you won't find many interesting anecdotes here. But, like all good academics, he uses a wealth of hard data to back up his assertions, and provides interesting explanations of different aspects of the Korean economy. A great reference.