Purpose - The purpose of this study is to analyze and compare the international competitiveness of digital service trade between Korea and China and to help enhance the competitive advantage of digital service trade between the two countries. Design/methodology - This paper designs and establishes a comprehensive evaluation system for the international competitiveness of the Korea-China digital service trade. By using the analytical methods of combining theory and demonstration through qualitative and quantitative analysis, this paper makes a concrete and complete theoretical deconstruction and empirical measurement of its international competitiveness from the two levels of overall competitiveness and departmental competitiveness. At the same time, the study also analyzes the competitive advantages and comparative disadvantages of the two countries. Findings - It is found that South Korea has a strong competitive advantage in the sector competitiveness of digital service trade, and the export structure is reasonable and balanced, but the deficit pattern affects the overall competitiveness. China has a strong competitive advantage in the overall competitiveness of the digital service trade. However, the structural imbalance in the export sector weakens the competitiveness of the sector. Both Korea and China have the space advantage and competitive potential to enhance international competitiveness in terms of development trends. Originality/value - This paper takes the lead in solving the pain point of the relative lack of similar research topics. It demonstrates the evolution process, development trends, and structural characteristics of the digital service trade. A new combination of competitive power research methods is innovated, and a comprehensive evaluation system is established. The above innovation points show the academic theoretical value and practical application value of this study.
