Contemporary Korea-Southeast Asian Relations: Bilateral and Multilateral

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the relations between the two Koreas and ASEAN states, outlining bilateral and multilateral relations and discussing current difficulties and strains.

Format: Hardback
Length: 298 pages
Publication date: 29 July 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of relations between the two Koreas and the diverse ASEAN states, encompassing their interactions with ASEAN as an organization. It presents a multifaceted portrayal, showcasing a complex interplay of bilateral and multilateral relations. Through detailed charts and insightful discussions, it explores the historical roots, current challenges, and potential future trajectories of each relationship. The book sheds light on the intricate web of factors shaping these alliances, including political, economic, cultural, and security aspects. It offers valuable insights into the complexities of regional diplomacy and sheds light on the strategies employed by both the Koreas and ASEAN states to navigate the complex terrain of inter-state relations. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the intricate tapestry of relations in Northeast Asia.
This comprehensive book provides a thorough examination of the complex relationships between the two Koreas and the various ASEAN states, encompassing their interactions with ASEAN as an organization. It presents a multifaceted portrayal, showcasing a intricate interplay of bilateral and multilateral relations. Through detailed charts and insightful discussions, it explores the historical roots, current challenges, and potential future trajectories of each relationship. The book sheds light on the intricate web of factors shaping these alliances, including political, economic, cultural, and security aspects. It offers valuable insights into the complexities of regional diplomacy and sheds light on the strategies employed by both the Koreas and ASEAN states to navigate the complex terrain of inter-state relations. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the intricate tapestry of relations in Northeast Asia.

Introduction:
The relations between the two Koreas and the ASEAN states have been a subject of significant interest and complexity for many years. The two Koreas, separated by the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) since the end of the Korean War in 1953, have been engaged in a protracted conflict that has yet to be resolved. Despite the ongoing challenges, the two Koreas have maintained diplomatic relations with most ASEAN states, including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand.

Bilateral Relations:
The bilateral relations between the two Koreas have been characterized by a mixture of cooperation and conflict. On the one hand, the two Koreas have taken steps to improve their relations, including the establishment of the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) in 2004 and the Inter-Korean Red Cross Agreement in 2005. These agreements have aimed to promote peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and to facilitate economic cooperation between the two countries.

However, the bilateral relations between the two Koreas have also been marked by tensions and disputes. The most prominent issue is the ongoing conflict between the two Koreas, which has resulted in the deaths of thousands of people and the displacement of millions. The conflict has also impacted the regional security environment, with South Korea and the United States maintaining a strong military presence in the region to deter any further aggression from North Korea.

In addition to the conflict, the two Koreas have also faced economic and political challenges. South Korea has been a major economic power in the region, with a strong industrial base and a growing consumer market. However, South Korea has also faced competition from China and other Asian countries, which has led to concerns about job losses and economic instability.

North Korea, on the other hand, has a limited economic and political presence in the region. However, North Korea has a strong military force and has been developing its nuclear weapons program, which has raised concerns about regional and global security. North Korea has also been accused of human rights abuses and has a poor record of respecting international law.

Multilateral Relations:
The two Koreas and the ASEAN states have also engaged in multilateral relations through various regional organizations, including ASEAN and the United Nations. ASEAN is a regional organization that aims to promote peace, stability, and economic cooperation in the region. The ASEAN states have been working to address regional challenges, including terrorism, climate change, and human rights abuses.

The two Koreas have also been active participants in multilateral negotiations, including the Six-Party Talks, which aim to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula. The Six-Party Talks have been ongoing since 2003, but progress has been slow, and the negotiations have been marked by tensions and disagreements.

In addition to the Six-Party Talks, the two Koreas and the ASEAN states have also engaged in multilateral cooperation on issues such as trade, investment, and tourism. The ASEAN-Korea Free Trade Agreement (AKFTA) was signed in 2010, which aimed to promote economic cooperation between the two regions.

However, the multilateral relations between the two Koreas and the ASEAN states have also been marked by challenges. The most prominent issue is the ongoing conflict between the two Koreas, which has made it difficult for the ASEAN states to engage in meaningful cooperation with North Korea. In addition, North Korea's nuclear weapons program has raised concerns about regional and global security, which has made it difficult for the ASEAN states to work with North Korea on other issues.

Conclusion:
The relations between the two Koreas and the ASEAN states are complex and multifaceted. The two Koreas have taken steps to improve their relations, including the establishment of the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization and the Inter-Korean Red Cross Agreement. However, the ongoing conflict between the two Koreas and North Korea's nuclear weapons program have made it difficult for the ASEAN states to engage in meaningful cooperation with North Korea. The ASEAN states have also faced economic and political challenges, which have impacted their ability to engage in multilateral relations. Despite these challenges, the two Koreas and the ASEAN states continue to work together to promote peace, stability, and economic cooperation in the region.

Weight: 740g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032111797