Role of Korea, Japan, and China in Global Supply Chain Networks: An LDA and Mode Analysis Approach

Purpose - This study investigates the roles of Korea, Japan, and China in global supply chain networks, highlighting their strategic responses to recent disruptions and their implications for future resilience. It explores the critical roles these countries play in maintaining global supply chain stability and the adaptive strategies they employ in response to external shocks. Design/Methodology/Approach - Utilizing advanced text mining techniques, including Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) and both 1-mode and 2-mode network analyses, the research analyzes unstructured data spanning from 2020 to 2023 to uncover underlying patterns and interactions within the supply chains. Findings - The analysis reveals that Korea is advancing in smart manufacturing and materials research, Japan maintains a strong focus on supply chain stability and logistics optimization, while China prioritizes technological innovation, particularly in the energy vehicle sector. Despite these distinct focuses, all three countries remain central nodes in the global supply chain, sharing vulnerabilities such as geopolitical risks, dependency on specific industries, and cybersecurity threats. Research Implications - The findings underscore the need for increased supply chain diversification, enhanced regional cooperation, and the adoption of sustainable practices to mitigate potential risks. The insights provided can guide policymakers and business leaders in crafting more resilient and adaptable strategies for global supply chain management in an increasingly uncertain economic landscape.