미·중 경쟁 시대의 한국 외교 - 전략적 자율성과 동맹 강화의 딜레마 - = Strengthening Allies: The U.S.-South Korea Partnership Amid Great Power Competition

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

This paper examines the evolving nature of U.S. global leadership in the 21st century, focusing on its implications for the Korean Peninsula and Northeast Asia. By analyzing the historical context of American leadership and drawing parallels with the British Empire, the study provides a foundation for understanding current geopolitical dynamics, particularly the intensifying U.S.-China rivalry. This great power competition profoundly affects strategic position of the Republic of Korea(ROK, South Korea), complicating its relationships with both powers. To address these challenges, the United States must continue to exercise leadership on global issues while strengthening cooperation with its allies, whereas South Korea must enhance its security through its alliance with the U.S. while pursuing its own strategic autonomy. The future success of the U.S.-ROK alliance hinges on finding a new equilibrium between cooperation and autonomy, adapting to the changing dynamics of the international landscape. The paper argues that the U.S. must adapt its leadership style to a multipolar world, while South Korea navigates the complex U.S.-China relationship. To effectively manage these challenges, the analysis concludes by recommending that South Korea establish a bipartisan ‘U.S.-China Relations Committee’ in its National Assembly, modeled after the U.S. Congress’s USCC, to analyze U.S.-China dynamics comprehensively. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for South Korea to enhance its diplomatic capabilities and negotiation skills to navigate the complexities of U.S.-China relations effectively, thereby maintaining stability in Northeast Asia while pursuing its national interests in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.