Financial reform and the efficiency of credit allocation in Korea

This study analyzes some of the structural problems associated with the Korean financial sector, and investigates the efficiency of credit allocation by the financial system over the period from 1970 to 1996. Using data at the level of 32 industrial branches, we find no evidence that credit flows were directed sectors that were more profitable, either before or after financial reforms were initiated in the 1980s. We also find that the financial support did not contribute to improve the performance of the favored industries over time.