The challenges for macro talent management in the mature emerging market of South Korea: A review and research agenda

Abstract

As the global economy continues to fight the war for talent, talent management has increasingly become a critical function that must be addressed if corporations are to survive and thrive. In this connection, South Korea's (henceforth, Korea)'s transformation from a third-world and under-developed economy to a global powerhouse and an important mature emerging market has caught the attention of scholars in numerous fields. In this comprehensive review of talent management in Korea, we trace its evolution and address the following questions: what challenges does Korea face in attracting global talent? What are the main impacts of Korea's government policies and interventions in its macro talent management system? We develop a revised macro talent management framework and offer propositions. We conclude by offering specific suggestions for the state and policymakers toward attracting and retaining talent.