Determinants of Export Competitiveness of Korean SME Manufacturers in ASEAN Markets

ASEAN has emerged as a key export market for Korean firms due to its rapid economic growth and expanding market opportunities. However, intensified competition and changing market environments require firms to strengthen their export competitiveness to achieve sustainable export performance. Drawing on the resource-based view (RBV), this study examines the determinants of export competitiveness and their relationship with export performance in the ASEAN market. Specifically, export orientation, human capital, and network capability are considered key factors influencing export competitiveness. Export competitiveness refers to a firm’s overall ability to respond to foreign market conditions, maintain competitive positions, and effectively utilize relational resources in export markets. Using firm-level data from Korean SME manufacturers with experience in the ASEAN market, this study empirically analyzes the relationships among these variables. The findings provide theoretical insights into how internal and external resources shape export competitiveness and offer practical implications for improving export competitiveness in emerging markets.