South Korea

Overview

South Korea turned itself from a post-war economy into an advanced industrial power within two generations. Its conglomerates lead world markets in semiconductors, displays, batteries, shipbuilding and consumer electronics.

Beyond hardware, Korean films, music and food have become global exports, giving the country an outsized cultural footprint that supports its brands — and Samsung Electronics remains one of the world's most recognisable technology companies.

On the rise

Chips, batteries and the global appetite for Korean culture give South Korea industrial and soft power few countries can match.