Absorption, Assimilation, and Diffusion of Imported Technology - A Case of a Machinery Company in Korea in the 1970s -

Abstract

This article tells the story of a Korean machinery firm, which sought to absorb imported foreign technology, assimilate it and then diffuse it in the 1970's to Korea. Through this story, the reader will gain an understanding of the political, social, and economic context in which Korean enterprises managed their businesses in a decade of rapid economic growth. This case will also illustrate the role that the Korean government played in assisting businesses in building up their competitive strength in order to make a positive and significant contribution to the growth of the national economy.