Since the end of the Korean War in 1953, the Republic of Korea has achieved astounding economic growth, sometimes referred to as the "Miracle on the Hangang River." The areas of strongest development are still shipbuilding, semiconductors and consumer electronics, although the Korean automobile industry is rapidly gaining footholds in overseas markets. Korea is aiming to enter the 21st century with a restructured industrial model that will allow her to compete successfully in the free world market. Korea has been invited to join the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) as the 29th member in 1996. Exports  US$ 143.685.5million  As of 1999.12 Imports  US$ 119,752.3 million GDP  US$ 406.7 billion GNI  US$ 402.1 billion (Per capita GNI : US$ 8,581) Economy Growth Rate : 10.7%