Title: Chaos in Korea: discerning opportunities

Authors: David McHardy Reid

Addresses: MUI Chair of International Business, Curtin Business School, Curtin, University of Technology, Perth, Western Australia 6845, Austalia

Abstract: This paper assesses the implications that the Asian Crisis, as it impacts on the Republic of Korea, has for foreign MNEs. The paper is based on some 100 interviews conducted with the CEOs and other senior personnel of companies operating in South Korea. Although the Crisis initially appeared to portend badly for all concerned with the Korean market, a window of opportunity opened for foreign enterprise. However, this opportunity is not of a ||blanket|| nature. It requires an in-depth understanding of the Korean business environment and the pitfalls that lurk. In this mixed scenario, opportunities, among others, include importation of foreign capital and technology, manufacture and distribution of branded goods. They also include mergers and partnerships with Korean enterprises as well as acquisitions.

Keywords: market entry strategy; chaos theory; complexity theory; Asian Crisis; business development in Korea; MNE|s in Asia; MNC|s in Asia; international marketing strategy; joint venture; strategic alliances; success factors in international business.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMDM.2000.001214

International Journal of Management and Decision Making, 2000 Vol.1 No.1, pp.44-67

Published online: 01 Jul 2003 *

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