Respect, responsibility and the future of the Korea-U.S. Alliance

For over seven decades, the Republic of Korea-U.S. alliance has been built on more than just financial considerations. However, concerns are rising that both Washington and Seoul may be losing sight of the strategic significance of this enduring partnership.

Public criticism, a focus on transactional diplomacy, and domestic politics are beginning to overshadow the alliance's importance. This issue carries a cultural dimension. Public pressure and criticism do not tend to be effective in Asian societies. In such cultures, matters of face, respect, and the manner in which disagreements are addressed still hold considerable weight.

This does not advocate for avoiding challenging discussions. It is essential for allies to communicate openly with each other. Yet, there is a crucial difference between frankness and public humiliation.

China has learned this lesson the hard way. Its use of economic and diplomatic pressure on the Republic of Korea has sometimes yielded short-term results. However, coercion has also led to enduring resentment. Bullying may force a country to weigh the immediate costs of resistance, but it rarely fosters genuine friendship.