This paper investigates a firms knowledge accumulation pattems. lt argues that knowledge accumulation paths tend to follow certain directionality once the initial type of knowledge is chosen. A conceptua1 framework is developed to identify distinct knowledge accumulation paths. Based on earlier studies, technologica1 knowl어ge in the semiconductor industry is c1assified into two categories: general and specific. lt is proposed that firms with initial investment in general knowledge are more likely to expand into specific knowledge while those beginning with specific knowledge should show no systematic pattems. Empirical data of the globa1 semiconductor industry largely support the propositions. Also, there emerge c1ear country pattems in knowledge accumulation. In particular, ]apanese companies revealed strong tendency to invest in general knowledge first and then expand into (related) s야cific knowledge. U .S. and European companies showed more cliverse pattems, with some of them initia11y investing in specific knowledge. Korean, Taiwanese and Brazilian cases took paths more diverse than ]apanese but less diverse than U.S. and European counterparts. Since there arises inertia in knowledge accumulation process, initia1 choice of a particular knowledge type carries profound implications for further knowledge builcling dynamics.

• 김동재 | Dong Jae Kim