East Asia´s power crescent

The economic and technological advances of Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore are examined, focusing on how these advances have been achieved, how they have affected these countries and their Asian neighbors, and how they might further reconfigure the region´s economic and technological profiles. The economic and technological status of three other nations, which are trailing behind but are alluring enough to industries and investors to have reached development´s first rung, is briefly discussed. The problems posed by the poverty and political instability of the region, as well as by regional rivalries, are considered. Predictions for the future of the region are offered.<>