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Reverse knowledge diffusion: Competitive dynamics and the knowledge seeking behavior of Korean high-tech firms

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Abstract

This paper endeavors to enrich the existing knowledge acquisition literatures by specifically highlighting downsides of external ties of individuals. We introduce the concept of reverse knowledge diffusion (RKD) through external ties of individuals, and develop theoretical propositions to explain how the risks of RKD vary based on competitive dynamics and status of firms as innovation market leaders or market followers. We develop the construct of RKD to help explain why rivals may pursue contrasting knowledge seeking strategies with regards to leverage external ties of individuals, the timing of establishing these ties, and ex ante control mechanisms designed to regulate these relationships. We also discuss how our propositions advance the theory of knowledge seeking behaviors and generate future research opportunities.

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Acknowledgments

We wish to thank Yeonji Seo, Jeonghwan Lee, Hyojung Kim, Chuljin Park, Kira Choi, Donghwi Seo, Junghyun Suh, and two anonymous reviewers for their helpful comments. We also wish to thank Rachel (Rae) Pinkham, and Marc Ahlstrom of Burlington County College for their editorial assistance with this paper. All errors remain ours.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Strategy and International Business, Graduate School of Business, Seoul National University, SK-Hall 308, San 56-1 Sillim-Dong, Gwanak-Gu, Seoul, 151-916, South Korea

    Namgyoo K. Park & Jinju Lee

  2. Department of Management, School of Business Administration, University of Miami, 414-H Jenkins, 5250 University Drive, Coral Gables, FL, 33124, USA

    John M. Mezias

  3. Department of Management, School of Business, Hallym University, Dasan-Hall 10339, 1 Hallymdaehak-gil, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, 200-702, South Korea

    Jae-Hoon Han

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  1. Namgyoo K. Park
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Correspondence to Jinju Lee.

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Park, N.K., Mezias, J.M., Lee, J. et al. Reverse knowledge diffusion: Competitive dynamics and the knowledge seeking behavior of Korean high-tech firms. Asia Pac J Manag 31, 355–375 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10490-013-9349-5

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