Expanding Korea’s Development Paradigm? The Case for Closer Samoa-ROK Relations

Abstract

In 2010 South Korea became the first country to graduate from aid recipient to aid donor status in the OECD DAC framework. However, since its entry into the development assistance fray, South Korea’s development aid program has been criticized for following realist, self-interested goals, as well as a lack of coordination and effectiveness in aid efforts. In response, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the South Korean development aid agency has focused on select countries and regions to better enhance the effectiveness of its program. This paper uses a mix of primary (interviews) and secondary data to make the case for a wider South Korean development paradigm that looks to the Pacific region in expanding its assistance to Samoa. It argues that fostering an expanded development relationship with the small island nation represents a real strategic opportunity to enhance South Korea’s reputation in the region. Additionally, due to its size, increased investment in small amounts can help to improve aid effectiveness from an impact perspective and presents an ideal development partner by way of synthesized development goals.