Strategic Neutrality and Middle Power Diplomacy: Comparing South Korea and Japan’s Vietnam Engagement

• 발행기관: 글로벌융합연구학회
• 저자명: Seungho Jeong
• 간행물 정보: 『글로벌융합연구학회지』제4권 제2호, 189~209쪽, 전체 21쪽
• 주제분류: 복합학 > 학제간연구
• 파일형태: PDF
• 발행일자: 2025.06.30

국문 초록

This paper explores the diplomatic strategies of South Korea and Japan—both middle powers—as they engage Vietnam amid intensifying great power rivalry in the Indo-Pacific. Drawing on a hybrid analytical framework that combines realism, constructivism, and hedging theory, the study analyzes how these two countries utilize economic, normative, and security tools to shape their bilateral ties with Vietnam, while enhancing their regional standing. Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) strategy emphasizes maritime security, the rule of law, and alignment with ASEAN norms. Its long-standing official development assistance (ODA), investment, and security cooperation have positioned Japan as a credible and trusted partner in Vietnam’s strategic calculus. In contrast, South Korea’s New Southern Policy (NSP) adopts a more flexible, development-focused approach that emphasizes soft power, mutual prosperity, and multilateral cooperation—without direct security entanglements. Using data from ODA disbursement reports, regional surveys, and policy documents, the study finds that while Japan wields greater strategic influence, South Korea enjoys stronger normative resonance with Vietnamese society. The analysis contributes to broader discussions on middle-power diplomacy and Vietnam’s hedging behavior, offering insights into how smaller states navigate a shifting regional order shaped by competing powers.

목차

1. Introduction

2. Theoretical Framework and Key Concepts

3. South Korea’s Engagement with Vietnam

4. Japan’s Vietnam Strategy: FOIP, Economic Diplomacy, and Security Engagement

5. Comparative Analysis and ASEAN Standing

6. Conclusion and Policy Implications

References

키워드

Middle Power Diplomacy Strategic Neutrality ASEAN Indo-Pacific FOIP New Southern Policy