Policy and Economic Performance in Divided Korea During the Cold War Era

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The book examines the economic rivalry between North and South Korea from 1945 to 1991, arguing that the outcomes were not as predictable as commonly believed. Nicholas Eberstadt presents extensive comparative data, revealing that North Korea, under Kim Il Sung, outperformed South Korea in several economic indicators during the early years post-partition and into the 1970s. He explores how government policies influenced economic growth and challenges existing theories about planned versus market economies, suggesting a need for reevaluation based on this unique historical context.