ABSTRACT
A complex web of desires drove the Koreans to the Persian Gulf. Chung Ju Yung, Park Chung Hee and others saw the success of Japanese companies on huge contracts in the region. Perhaps Chung also listened to the advice of such experts as Phillip Grub of George Washington University, who had first visited Korea in 1970. “I came to Korea after meeting with the Shah of Iran,” said Grub. “I developed a close relationship with Chairman Chung. I told him there were opportunities for Korean companies.” Four years later, Grub offered the same advice after visiting Kuwait. “Chairman Chung picked up the ball and led a delegation there.”
