Foreign Policy

Abstract The foreign policy of South Korea since the Sixth Republic was established in 1987 has remained remarkably stable. In terms of structures, goals, and tools, there has been little change across administrations. The structures underpinning South Korea’s foreign policymaking process reflect the country’s strong presidentialism. Thus, the president and its office dominate foreign policy decision-making. Throughout this period, the key goals have been strengthening national security, autonomy, Korean reunification, promoting economic openness at the global level, and influencing international affairs. When it comes to foreign policy tools, South Korea prioritizes its alliance with the United States, strong military capabilities, multilateralism and cooperation, soft power and public diplomacy, and trade multilateralism and bilateralism. Ultimately, South Korea is a middle power. Its foreign policy objectives and, especially, tools reflect this.