Comparative Analysis of Competitiveness in the Steel Distribution Industry between Korea and Japan

Purpose - This study reviews changes in the steel export-import structure between Korea and Japan using a trade related index; it focuses on analyzing comparative advantage based on time-series analysis statistics data using the trade intensity index (TII), revealed comparative advantage index (RCA), and trade specialization index (TSI). Research design, data, and methodology - In terms of their economic phase, Korea and Japan have a mutually complementary character. Therefore, this study aims to understand each country's trade structure to strengthen Korea-Japan economic cooperation, examine trade drawbacks, analyze factors that affect trade, and identify ways to improve and expand trade. Results - The results indicate immense potential for mutual cooperation and complementariness, which will yield guaranteed adequate profits comparable to those of any regional economic integrated community. Conclusion - From our viewpoint, Northeast economic cooperation can facilitate industry technological cooperation with Japanese partners in the prevailing environment that is characterized by increasing competition among industries and the need to secure stable resource supplies as well as the expansion of the export market and diversification, which can have significant positive implications.