10 - Next Steps in ASEAN–Korea Relations for East Asian Security

Summary

INTRODUCTION

Despite increasing economic interdependence, some formalized free trade agreements, and investments, the security aspects of East Asian co-operation remain uncertain. East Asia is continually beset by tensions arising from the rise of China, Sino–United States rivalry for regional hegemony, the question of Japan's foreign and defence policies, as well as the North Korean nuclear issue. Complicated by territorial conflicts, historical resentment, and domestic dynamics of the countries in the region due to economic and political crises, these developments cast some doubts over the pragmatism of East Asian integration, particularly in the security realm. This chapter attempts to explore whether ASEAN and Korea's contribution to security co-operation is able to strengthen East Asian integration.

SECURITY SITUATION IN EAST ASIA

The most important factor in East Asian security is no doubt the United States. The United States maintains its military alliance with Japan and South Korea. The United States has even appeared to be more comfortable with Japan taking a more active stance in security and foreign security policies, opening the way for a Japanese military role beyond strictly traditional peacekeeping operations. The United States has also expanded military cooperation with non-alliance states, closely co-operated with India to patrol waters approaching the Malacca Straits, and taken some measures to deal with the rapidly increasing influence of China in the region. The United States has taken Proliferation Security Initiatives (PSI) to interdict ships on the high seas suspected of carrying dangerous materials and weapons of mass destruction (WMD) that can be used for terror attacks.

Apart from fighting terrorism and preventing the proliferation of WMD, a more fundamental and long-term strategic interest of the United States in East Asia is to prevent China and Russia from challenging its hegemonic position. No country, other than China and Russia, could potentially challenge the U.S. position in East Asia.