Imitation to Innovation: The Dynamics of Korea's Technological Learning

Hardback

Main Details

Title Imitation to Innovation: The Dynamics of Korea's Technological Learning
Authors and Contributors      By (author) Linsu Kim
SeriesManagement of Innovation and Change
Physical Properties
Format:Hardback
Pages:320
Category/GenreMacroeconomics
Economic history
ISBN/Barcode 9780875845746
ClassificationsDewey:338.06409519
Audience
Undergraduate
Postgraduate, Research & Scholarly
Professional & Vocational

Publishing Details

Publisher Harvard Business Review Press
Imprint Harvard Business Review Press
Publication Date 1 March 1997
Publication Country United States

Description

Linsu Kim examines the pivotal role that technology development has played in South Korea's dramatic transformation over the last three decades from an economy based on subsistence agriculture to a highly-industrialized global competitor. Kim identifies a pattern in which Korean firms acquire foreign technologies, assimilate and improve these technologies, and, eventually, invest in their own research and development. In the introductory chapters, Kim establishes a theoretical context for analyzing the dynamics of innovation, defining technology as a collection of physical processes to transform inputs into outputs, as well as the knowledge and skills required to carry out these transformations. In the first part, he explores the roles of public policy and the sociocultural environment in setting the stage for Korea's technological evolution. In part two, he draws on extensive case studies from large companies in a variety of manufacturing industries, to illustrate patterns of technological development in the private sector. In the final part, Kim considers the implications of Korea's experience as a potential role model for other catching-up countries. This work is part of the "Management of Innovation and Change Series".

Author Biography

Since 1984, Harvard Business School Press has been dedicated to publishing the most contemporary management thinking, written by authors and practitioners who are leading the way. Whether readers are seeking big-picture strategic thinking or tactical problem solving, advice in managing global corporations or for developing personal careers, HBS Press helps fuel the fire of innovative thought. HBS Press has earned a reputation as the springboard of thought for both established and emerging business leaders.