South Korean newspapers have recently focused on parallels in international relations. As they follow developments in Ukraine and Hong Kong and keep their gaze on North Korea, they are alert to similarities that can influence the foreign policy of the Park administration. The most significant overlaps are found between Ukraine and South Korea. The former is situated on a civilizational fault line in Europe, leaving its population divided between those oriented to the West and those identifying with Russia. Economic ties in East Ukraine are inseparably close to Russia, while political and security thinking of an administration dominated by other areas of the country has shifted decisively toward the EU. This leaves the country torn in its foreign policy and vulnerable to outside manipulation and direct involvement. Similarly, the economy of South Korea is now heavily centered on ties to China, while the country has an alliance with the United States. There are also divisions over how to address the country’s primary challenges in North Korea, the reorganization of Asia, and economic regionalism. If war seemed unimaginable in Europe just a year or two ago, then its possibility in East Asia should also be contemplated, putting South Korea in a difficult position that is exacerbated by North Korea’s role.
2014NOV10
Country Report: South Korea (November 2014)
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By :
Editorial Staff (prepared by Han Minjeong)