Inter-Korean economic integration and development : the dynamics of technology transfer

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to explore the path of technology transfer between South and North Korea in the course of economic cooperation and integration. This study examines the implication of technology transfer from the German and European Union economic integration and the challenge of Vietnamese transitional economy as models to reduce the possible economic and social impacts in North Korean economic integration. As well, while reflecting on the models of other countries, tire comparison of system, structure, the stave of Korean technology, and technology policy for manufacturing industry between South and North Korea is analyzed to suggest the possible policies for sound economic integration and sustainable economic growth for unified Korea. As a result of researching the model of Germany, EU and Vietnam and the Korean context of technology and comparison of industry and technology this thesis finds that technology is a critical factor in reducing the economic and social impacts before and after economic integration through systemic institutionalization. The establishment of an institution for technology transfer and exchange of knowledge to meet sound horizontal economic integration is imperative to generate the environment of ongoing innovation for current needs as well as future needs of Korean industries. As well, policies for Korean peninsula should be made in technological education; in infrastructure and environment for new, technologies, and in diffusing knowledge and ideas, all with the aim of enhancing national capability and constant innovation of nation through free movement of production elements.