MANAGEMENT SCIENCE AND OPERATIONS-RESEARCH IN THE REPUBLIC-OF-KOREA

Abstract

The MS/OR movement in South Korea started in the mid 60s when the military made early efforts to utilize MS/OR. These efforts acted as a catalyst to encourage its application in public enterprises. In the mid 70s, large private business followed the public sectors lead by using MS/OR to streamline management practices. By the mid 80s, medium- and small-sized industries began to apply MS/OR techniques, aided by the spread of microcomputers.

Recognizing the importance of MS/OR as an efficient management tool for economic development, the government developed educational and training programs in MS/OR in the early 70s. For example, it established KAIST as the leading educational center in science and technology, including MS/OR. As the public interest in MS/OR increased and its role became more important, the Korean Operations Research Society further promoted MS/OR in Korea, playing a leading role in establishing the Association of Asian-Pacific Operational Research Societies. MS/OR has contributed greatly to the rapid economic development in Korea by meeting industrys need for efficient management tools.