• Journal of the Korean association of regional geographers
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• v.13 no.1
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• pp.54-67
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• 2007

This paper aims to explore the characteristics of regional embeddedness of Korean firms in Daren City, China, with special reference to management practices. To achieve this goal, I attempt to analyze the type and structure of the firm, the structure of decision-making, labor practices, and the inter-organizational networks with the government, trade associations and the business supporting agencies. The major purpose of the investment in Daren by Korean firms is to penetrate and expand the local market. In line with this, the structure of decision-making by Korean firms tends to become increasingly autonomous, especially in terms of employment and marketing. However, the decision-making related to finance and accounting tends to be still highly controlled upon the headquarter in Korea. In addition, it is shown that Korean firms make a great effort to sustain the cooperative relationships with the local society and the local government.