Foreign Aid and Development in South Korea and Africa

This insightful book explores the development of South Korea compared to sub-Saharan Africa, examining the factors behind its economic success and others' ongoing challenges.

This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the remarkable development trajectory of South Korea over the past seventy years, juxtaposed with selected countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The author seeks to identify the critical factors that contributed to South Korea's success story, while exploring the persistent challenges faced by nations that were once comparable. Through this comparative lens, the book delves into the intricacies of economic growth, examining why certain countries have been able to thrive while others struggle to achieve and sustain similar progress.

In the 1950s, South Korea's GDP per capita stood at $876, placing it on par with Cote d'Ivoire and slightly below Ghana. However, the transformation from a war-torn, aid-dependent economy to the 13th largest economy globally has garnered significant international attention. The book scrutinizes how South Korea managed to multiply its GDP per capita by a staggering factor of 23, while other Less Developed Countries continue to face difficulties. By comparing South Korea's political strategies and foreign assistance with those of Ghana, Nigeria, and Zambia—countries that were also significant recipients of U.S. aid—the author investigates the unique contexts that facilitated South Korea's remarkable achievements.

This book will appeal to researchers, students, and policymakers interested in development, comparative political economy, and foreign aid. It offers valuable insights into the dynamics of state capacity, diplomatic engagement, and the effective utilization of aid, making it a relevant resource for those seeking to understand the varied trajectories of development across different regions, particularly in the context of Foreign Aid and Development in South Korea and Africa.