Leading Asian countries' HRD practices in the IT industry: a comparative study of South Korea and India

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare IT firms in two leading Asian countries in the IT industry, South Korea and India, to suggest how to leverage their human resource development (HRD) practices for continued growth. The IT industry in South Korea and India has shown fast growth and notable profits in a short time, but managing their human resources for their continued success is challenging. The research questions in this study were: What HRD practices in the IT industry have supported South Korea's and India's development within a short period of time? How do these HRD practices in the IT industry compare between India and South Korea? Using content and case analysis approaches, this study identified HRD practices in the IT industry in South Korea and India. Findings included four emergent themes: different levels of globalization; talent development; employee turnover issues; and challenges that their IT firms face. Recommendations and limitations of the study were provided for practice and future studies.