Troubled Tiger: Businessmen, Bureaucrats and Generals in South Korea

FROM THE PUBLISHER

In this new edition of Clifford's widely acclaimed book, the author expands his analysis of modern Korea to include the dramatic events of the last three years. These include the imprisonment and sentencing of two former presidents of South Korea for their role in the Kwangju uprising and on various charges of corruption, the death of Kim II Sung in the North and the resultant exacerbation of the instability of the North-South standoff, with all its military/nuclear implications, and recent labor and student protests.

FROM THE CRITICS

Library Journal

Drawing on his journalistic experiences in the region, Clifford addresses the business climate of South Korea. This well-written book presents Korea's commercial history since 1961, building on historical, social, cultural, and economic factors. The work probes the tensions between and among business, government, and the military. The 24 specific-topic chapters explore, among other things, Korea's history, economic growth, specific industries such as steel, the assassination of President Park in 1979, political and business reforms and scandals, chaebol (the giant conglomerates), and the anticipated economic future. While this timely book is recommended primarily for practicing executives and government officials, scholars and advanced students of business and the social sciences should also find it useful.-Joseph W. Leonard, Miami Univ., Oxford, Ohio

Booknews

A political and economic history of South Korea. Focusing on the personalities behind the rapid industrialization of the Korean economy (such as the managers of Hyundai and other corporations and the ruling military elite) the author argues that the combination of military dictatorship and technological know-how were key factors in the explosive growth of the economy. Extending his analysis into the mid-1990s, he discusses the problems inherent in this structure and the scope of Korea's future. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

Booknews

Explores the history of one of the world's most extraordinary economies, discussing the relationship between Korea's authoritarian politics and social structure and the country's rapid economic growth, and the on-going tensions among business, government, and the military in Korea. Provides an overview of political developments up to 1961, and covers in depth the economic transformations begun by Park Chung Hee. Paper edition (387-3), $19.95. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Wall Street Journal