Stat Watch

A growing number of Korean companies are reportedly interested in establishing a stronger presence in Africa and South America, according to a survey by the Federation of Korean Industries (FKI), the lobbying group for the country’s large businesses, Tuesday.

About 46 percent said, among emerging markets, Africa and South America will become their major marketplace over the next two years, up from the current 24 percent.

About 53.6 percent said Asia and the Middle East will be their main market through 2015, down from the current 76 percent, indicating that local businesses are diversifying their turfs.

The survey found that Asia and the Middle East are increasingly losing their appeal among Korean companies, due to intensifying competition and market saturation.