Politics of East Asian Free Trade Agreements: Unveiling the Asymmetry between Korea and Japan

Choi and Oh's textbook examines the politics of free trade agreements in Japan and South Korea, exploring the role of institutions, political leaders, sectoral interests, and civil society in shaping their paths. It provides valuable insights into trade politics in East Asia and is a useful resource for students, scholars, and policymakers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 124 pages
Publication date: 23 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive textbook delves into the intricate politics of free trade agreements (FTAs) in Japan and South Korea,spanning from the late 1990s to present day. By examining the role of institutions, political leaders, sectoral interests, and civil society, Choi and Oh provide a detailed analysis of how these agreements have shaped the economic and political landscapes of the two countries. Through a systematic approach, the authors expose the domestic political underpinnings of FTAs within the broader context of a global trade order that is increasingly characterized by conflict.

This textbook is a valuable resource for students of international political economy and international trade in East Asia, particularly those focusing on Japan and South Korea. It offers a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics that underpin FTAs, enabling students to grasp the key factors that influence their negotiation, implementation, and impact. Moreover, scholars and policymakers interested in better understanding trade politics in East Asia will find this textbook to be an essential read.

The authors begin by providing an overview of the historical context in which FTAs have emerged in Japan and South Korea. They trace the origins of these agreements to the post-World War II era, when both countries sought to rebuild their economies and integrate into the global economy. The authors then examine the role of institutions, such as the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) and the Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE), in the negotiation and implementation of FTAs.

The authors also explore the influence of political leaders, including Prime Ministers Koizumi Junichiro and Lee Myung-bak, on the direction. They discuss how these leaders' policies and ideologies shaped the direction of FTAs in Japan and South Korea, particularly in terms of their emphasis on trade liberalization and market opening. Sectoral interests, such as the automobile and electronics industries, are also examined, as they play a significant role in shaping the content and direction of FTAs.

Civil society organizations, such as the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Korea Federation of Trade Unions, are also explored. The authors argue that these organizations have played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and influencing policymakers, particularly in the case of Japan and South Korea, where public opposition to FTAs has been significant.

The book also examines the impact of FTAs on the economic and political landscapes of Japan and South Korea. The authors argue that FTAs have facilitated economic integration and promoted trade and investment between the two countries. They also discuss the challenges that have been faced, such as concerns about job losses and wage stagnation.

In conclusion, this textbook provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the politics of free trade agreements in Japan and South Korea. By examining the role of institutions, political leaders, sectoral interests, and civil society, the authors shed light on the complex dynamics that underpin these agreements and their impact on the economic and political landscapes of the two countries. This book is a valuable resource for students, scholars, and policymakers interested in better understanding trade politics in East Asia.

Weight: 222g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367278922