Research on Factors Affecting South Korea’s OFDI Based on a Spatial Measurement Model

Purpose – This paper empirically investigates via a spatial lag model from the perspective of space economy to find the influencing factors of South Korea’s OFDI along with 60 countries. Design/methodology – In the study of regional economic phenomena, we must first test the corresponding spatial correlation, and on this basis, complete the construction of the spatial model. For the target research object, after testing the spatial correlation, if there is spatial correlation, a spatial measurement model is needed. This paper uses the global Moran’s I index for calculation. Based on the characteristics and research needs of the research object, this paper selects the spatial lag model to verify the existence of the spatial effect and factors affecting OFDI. Findings – Our results show that export scale, infrastructure, technology level, political stability, resource endowment, market size, distance and labor cost have a certain impact on Korea’s OFDI, but at present the distance and market size factors are the most important influencing factors for South Korea’s OFDI, The technical level and political stability have little effect on South Korea’s OFDI, and are not main factors determining South Korea’s OFDI. Originality/value – Through spatial measurement verification, it was found that the spatial effect has a significant impact on OFDI, along with more than 60 countries. On this basis, relevant suggestions are put forward, which have strong practical significance for South Korea s OFDI to achieve healthy and sustainable development.