New Multinational Enterprises from Korea and Taiwan

Book excerpt: This volume represents the first substantive study of emerging multinationals (MNEs) from Asian economies, drawing on the unique experiences of South Korea and Taiwan. Combining an econometric investigation with detailed case studies of leading Korean and Taiwanese electronics companies, it aims to demystify the nature and theoretical implications of these dynamic economic regions. The author argues that many of these `new multinationals do not possess the characteristics typically ascribed to MNEs, such as technological leadership, strong marketing positions or advanced managerial capabilities. This is highlighted by documentation of recent developments in outward investment from Korea and Taiwan at both micro and macro level. The implications of the recent Asian crisis for the internationaliztion of Korean and Taiwanese firms are also explored.