The OECD, comprised of 30 major countries, is a comprehensive economic organization that deals with such issues as the global economy, developmental support, education, health and environmental protection, etc. It undertakes analyses, provides policy recommendations and formulates regulations within its major areas of activity. Its global outreach program has broadened to include 70 nations outside its membership.

Korea signed the Convention founding the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development on December 12, 1996. The ROK government thereby pledged its full dedication to achieving the Organization's fundamental aims. The benefits of the OECD membership are many. Through its country surveys and comparable statistical and economic data, the OECD provides its member countries with tools to analyze and monitor their economic, social and environmental policies. Countries can access all of the research and analysis conducted by the Secretariat.

In addition to its economic intelligence functions, the OECD is a forum where countries can discuss and share national experience, identify best practices and find solutions to common problems. The OECD has working relationships with over 70 non-member economies, and members benefit from dialogue and consultations with all players on the world scene.

Also, in May 2004, the OECD opened a Regional Center for Competition in Seoul in cooperation with the Korea Fair Trade Commission and the OECD. The Seoul Regional Center for Competition expands the OECD's work on competition in the Asian region and helps the authorities concerned to develop and implement effective competition law and policy in their countries.

※ OECD Statistics of the ROK:
http://stats.oecd.org/wbos/viewhtml.aspx?queryname=322&querytype=view&lang=en