ABSTRACT
In their rapid globalization process, Korean firms have faced various challenges, as many features of Tiger Management are linked to Korean cultural characteristics, indicating a major need for adjustment when doing business in other countries. However, some fundamental Tiger Management features, including learning orientation, speed, and flexibility have helped them with effectively globalizing their business activities. Korean firms have shown flexibility in their global supplier selection, being ready to work with Korean as well as with non-Korean suppliers. Their robust supply chains often gave them competitive advantage, particularly in emerging markets. Furthermore, Korean firms were ready to customize their products and services according to local needs and preferences in different parts of the world in order to secure and maintain customers. Internally, they have built strong coordination and control systems in order to maintain global efficiency. The management of international subsidiaries initially tended to replicate Korean organizational practices, but often was considerably adjusted thereafter according to local cultural norms in each host country. Furthermore, many Korean companies have also strongly invested into strengthening their global business capabilities, including language skills and inter-cultural skills of their executives and managers.
