Once an impoverished, autocratic country, in just a few decades South Korea has transformed itself into a vibrant democracy with a highly developed economy. Using a comparative perspective to look at the factors behind South Korea's dynamism, Ji Young Choi provides a comprehensive, balanced, and accessible introduction to the country's politics, economy, and international relations. He also considers the political and economic history of North Korea in the context of inter-Korean relations.
Ji Young Choi is associate professor of politics and government and director of East Asian studies at Ohio Wesleyan University.
"Offers great value to anyone keen to develop a systematic understanding of South Korea's domestic politics and foreign relations." —Yong Wook Lee, Korea University
"A comprehensive yet readable account of Korea's meteoric rise…. Ji Young Choi provides a balanced and nuanced portrayal that is thoughtful, thorough, and engrossing." —Mitchell Lerner, Ohio State University
"Superbly written and covering all of the major issues, this is an excellent introduction to South Korea's politics, economy, and international relations." —Yong-Chool Ha, University of Washington
"Engaging, timely, and insightful: this accessible book presents the most up-to-date and detailed illustration of South Korea's politics, economy, society, culture, and foreign relations.” —Soyoung Kwon, George Mason University Korea
