Developmental Dictatorship in East Asia as Model for Africa? The Era Park Chung‐hee in South Korea (1963–1979) in Comparison to the Era Paul Kagame in Rwanda (2000–Today)

Ralph Wrobel

South African Journal of Economics, 2025, vol. 93, issue 2, 171-182

Abstract: Rwanda is among the fastest‐growing economies in Sub‐Saharan Africa, often discussed in the context of a ‘development state’. This paper examines whether Rwanda can be classified as a ‘developmental dictatorship’, a term closely associated with South Korea. It compares Rwanda's development under Paul Kagame (2000–2024) with South Korea's under Park Chung‐hee (1963–1979). Although both countries share similarities in their developmental preconditions and the motivations of their leaders, their policies differ significantly. Park Chung‐hee focused on industrialization through Five‐Year Plans, whereas Kagame emphasizes creating favourable business conditions. Consequently, South Korea has achieved significant wealth, whereas Rwanda remains a Less Developed Country, though both exemplify successful ‘developmental dictatorships’.

Date: 2025
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