ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides the basis from which to identify commonality among the administrative systems of East Asia and examines the case for regional distinctiveness. It shows that organization-wide consultation and consensus-based decision making. The book argues that “bureaucrats act only after the law allows them to” and notes that “excessive reference and dependence on a legal framework leads to a lack of flexibility.” It suggests that “the post-1978 period highlighted a gradual internalization of modern legal standards by Chinese public administration,” and explores increased protection of human rights, litigation rights, and due process protection. The book describes that, in South Korea, “the political elite then used their regulatory power to solicit political funds from the chaebols in return for privileged business deals and political contributions.”
