LCD TVs manufactured by Samsung were the best-selling products in Singapore, India, Vietnam and Nigeria, while flat-screen TVs produced by rival LG were a hit in Indonesia.

In India, Samsung's flat-screen TVs are more expensive than those offered by their rivals, but are still in high demand from high-end consumers thanks to their durability and extensive after-service network.

In Vietnam and Nigeria, Samsung LCD TVs have become symbols of wealth due to their sleek designs and brand power. Samsung mobile phones have also grown in popularity in Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates -- and not just for their sleek designs and wide array of functions. What has grabbed the attention of consumers is Samsung's use of dual SIM cards, which allows the use of two services without the need to carry two phones.

Samsung says it now aims to capture a 20 percent share of the global cell-phone market, up from its 17 percent stake just behind top-ranked Nokia, which currently controls 40 percent.

And the world's fifth-largest automaker, Hyundai Motor, has seen explosive growth among Indian consumers after implementing a huge discount in installment financing for people who turn in their used compact cars, regardless of brand, in exchange for the Korean automaker's compact or mid-sized sedans. Another Hyundai best-seller is the Tucson small SUV in Brazil.

Arirang News