The Metamorphosis of U.S.-Korea Relations: The Korean Question Revisited

The long history of Americas interaction with Korea started with the signing of the Treaty of Peace, Amity, Commerce, and Navigation in 1882, and with the establishment of the Seward-Shufeldt Line. The decline of Chinese sphere of influence over the Korean Peninsula and the fall of Russian power in the region led to a change from the SS Line to the Roosevelts Theodore-Franklin Line, the colonization of Korea, the division of Korea, the Korean War, and the Korean Question. This book argues that the United States must uphold its early commitment to peace and amity by now normalizing relations with North Korea in order to bring closure to the “Korean Question.”

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

The long and intricate history of America's engagement with Korea began with the signing of the Treaty of Peace, Amity, Commerce, and Navigation in 1882. This treaty marked the initial step in establishing diplomatic and commercial ties between the two nations. At the same time, the Seward-Shufeldt Line was established, which aimed to extend American influence from Alaska to the Philippines and the Samoan Islands, creating a comprehensive perimeter for the American era of dominance in the Pacific and the Asian market.

Commodore Robert Shufeldt, who played a pivotal role in shaping American policy towards Korea, saw the establishment of diplomatic and trading relations with Korea as the final piece in his plan to achieve American hegemony in the 20th century. This vision was shared by William Seward, who played a significant role in the negotiation and signing of the treaty.

However, the trajectory of America's relationship with Korea was not always smooth. The decline of Chinese sphere of influence over the Korean Peninsula and the fall of Russian power in the region, coupled with the rise of Japanese power, led to significant changes in the geopolitical landscape. This shift resulted in the Roosevelts Theodore-Franklin Line replacing the Seward-Shufeldt Line, which in turn led to the colonization of Korea, the division of Korea, the Korean War, and the unfortunate General Sherman Incident in 1866.

Over the years, America's engagement with Korea has been marked by periods of conflict and cooperation, with the United States playing a significant role in shaping the country's political and economic development. However, the "Korean Question" has remained a persistent issue, with the United States seeking to normalize relations with North Korea in order to bring closure to this long-standing dispute.

In conclusion, the history of America's engagement with Korea is a complex and multifaceted narrative that spans several centuries. From the initial signing of the Treaty of Peace, Amity, Commerce, and Navigation to the present day, the United States has played a significant role in shaping Korea's political and economic development. While the relationship has been marked by periods of conflict and cooperation, the "Korean Question" remains a critical issue that requires careful consideration and resolution. By upholding its early commitment to peace and amity, the United States can help to bring closure to this enduring dispute and establish a more stable and prosperous future for both nations.

Weight: 626g
Dimension: 226 x 163 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781498582810