{"product_id":"9780312326098","title":"Koreans: Who They Are, What They Want, Where Their Future Lies","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe rise of South Korea is one of the most unexpected and inspirational developments of the latter part of our century. A few decades ago, the Koreans were an impoverished, agricultural people. In one generation they came out of the fields and into Silicon Valley. In 1997, this powerhouse of a nation reeled and almost collapsed as a result of a weak financial system and heavily indebted conglomerates. The world is now watching to see whether the Koreans will be able to reform and continue their stunning growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAlthough Korea has only recently found itself a part of the global stage, it is a country with a rich and complex past. Early history shows that Koreans had a huge influence on ancient Japan, and their historic achievements include being the first culture to use metal movable type for printing books. However, much of their history is less positive; it is marred with political violence, poverty, and war—aspects that would sooner be forgotten by the Koreans, who are trying to focus on their promising future.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe fact that Korean history has eluded much of the world is unfortunate, but as Korea becomes more of a global player, understanding and appreciation for this unique nation has become indispensable.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn \u003ci\u003eThe Koreans, \u003c\/i\u003eMichael Breen provides an in-depth portrait of the country and its people. An early overview of the nature and values of the Korean people provides the background for a more detailed examination of the complex history of the country, in particular its division into the Communist north and pro-Western south.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn this absorbing and enlightening account of the Koreans, Michael Breen provides compelling insight into the history and character of this fascinating nation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"St. Martin's Press","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47009941750000,"sku":"9780312326098","price":18.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0737\/7593\/9824\/files\/9780312326098_p0.jpg?v=1763676807","url":"https:\/\/shop-qa.barnesandnoble.com\/products\/9780312326098","provider":"Barnes \u0026 Noble (DEV)","version":"1.0","type":"link"}