A surge in foreign direct investment in Korea over the past 25 years is the result of the country’s deep partnership with the OECD, leading to a sizeable increase in trade in services and a deeper integration in global value chains.

Membership of the OECD and the G20 has thrust Korea to the forefront of global efforts to transform the international tax architecture. It has played a pivotal role in advancing the adoption of tax policies and international tax standards among partner economies, including many developing countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

Korea was one of the first countries to undergo an OECD regulatory reform review shortly after joining the OECD. It has since successfully established the institutions, processes and tools to support good regulatory practices.

Korea’s remarkable journey from a post-war aid recipient to a global development co-operation partner is a model for many countries. Today, Korea plays a pivotal role, not only within the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) but also in global development co-operation fora.

Agriculture and fisheries in Korea have played an essential role in contributing to food security, the generation of viable livelihoods and the sustainable use of natural resources.

Korea’s economy brings a challenge to policy makers of how to better connect urban and rural areas. A balanced approach that takes account of the effects of population density and the concentration of economic activities – for instance through smart cities – can help bridge these gaps.

OECD recommendations have supported Korea in promoting a more gender-equal society. Korea has made significant progress in the last two decades, although it must continue its work to close the gap with OECD countries.

Korea’s cultural and creative industry is the seventh-largest in the world – underlining both its resilience and the rapid growth in its global standing.