This article summarizes the redefinition process of U.S.-ROK (Republic of Korea) alliance since 2002, arguing that through redefinition, so far the U.S.-ROK strategic alliance has been reconstructed and consolidated, and ROK has made its strategic choice to develop an even closer alliance with U.S., while alienating itself from and hedging against China in the short and medium term. Thus, the Sino-ROK relations are entering a period of strategic reawakening and mutual wariness at the critical juncture of the 20th anniversary of Sino-ROK diplomatic normalization.
목차
Abstract Introduction Three Major Issues of the Redefinition Issue One: Redeployment of USFK Issue Two: the Division of Security Role in the Alliance Issue Three: Strategic Vision for the Future Alliance Three Major Challenges and Debates on ROK’s Strategic Choice The First Challenge: Unresolved Issues of the Alliance The Second Challenge: the North Korea Factor The Third Challenge: A Tricky Balance between U.S. and China Implications for Sino-ROK Relations Looking into the Future