Migrant entrepreneurs from an advanced economy in a developing country: the case of Korean entrepreneurs in Malaysia
Journal of Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies
ISSN: 2053-4604
Article publication date: 22 July 2021
Issue publication date: 20 June 2022
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore the co-ethnic relations of migrant entrepreneurs (MEs) from advanced economies in a developing country, specifically in the context of co-ethnic ties among Korean migrant entrepreneurs (KMEs) operating business ventures in Malaysia.
Design/methodology/approach
This research is outlined by an embeddedness view and uses a qualitative approach using a single case study design.
Findings
For KMEs, in-group co-ethnic ties are mobilised in a relatively more structured manner coalescing personal and entrepreneurial endeavours, particularly demonstrating the dynamics of co-ethnic ties and the home country’s development levels. The findings lead to a model of migrant entrepreneurship for MEs from a more developed nation.
Originality/value
The theoretical value of this study lies in its clarification of the role of in-group ties in the setting of changing economic development levels and migration. Practice-wise, the findings on the adoption of co-ethnic ties that span formal, informal and transnational boundaries may inform migrants who are considering opportunities in less developed host countries, and assist stakeholders in developing policies concerning migrant communities and their ventures.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest pertaining to this study. This research was supported by the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme, code FRGS/1/2020/SS01/UKM/03/1.
Citation
Abd Hamid, H. and Everett, A.M. (2022), "Migrant entrepreneurs from an advanced economy in a developing country: the case of Korean entrepreneurs in Malaysia", Journal of Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies, Vol. 14 No. 4, pp. 595-615. https://doi.org/10.1108/JEEE-10-2020-0356
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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