Position Paper
Position Paper
**The United States**: South Korea has a long-standing and crucial alliance with the
United States, which plays a central role in maintaining peace and security on the
Korean Peninsula and in the broader Asia-Pacific region. This alliance is based on
mutual trust, shared values, and common security interests. South Korea remains
committed to strengthening this alliance, including joint military exercises, intelligence
sharing, and promoting economic cooperation. South Korea has a long military alliance
with the United States, aiding the U.S. in every war since the Vietnam War, including the
Iraq War. At the 2009 G20 London summit, then-U.S. President Barack Obama called
South Korea "one of America's closest allies and greatest friends." In 1987, South Korea
was among the first batch of countries to be designated as a major non-NATO ally.
**Regional Alliances**: South Korea recognizes the significance of regional alliances
and cooperation with neighbouring countries. Maintaining positive relationships with
countries like Japan, China, and others in the region is essential for promoting peace,
and economic prosperity, and addressing regional challenges effectively. South Korea
seeks to foster dialogue and cooperation with all regional partners, emphasizing
diplomatic solutions to historical disputes and territorial issues.
**Multilateral Partnerships**: South Korea actively participates in various multilateral
organizations and forums, such as the United Nations, ASEAN Regional Forum, and the
East Asia Summit. These partnerships offer opportunities to address global challenges,
advance economic cooperation, and foster cultural exchange. South Korea remains
committed to playing a responsible and constructive role within these multilateral
frameworks.
South Korea adopted the Sunshine Policy in pursuit of more peaceful relationships with
North Korea. The policy established the Kaesong Industrial Region, among other things.
This policy was continued by the next president Roh Moo-hyun who also visited North
Korea in 2007 and met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Il. Through this meeting both
leaders signed a declaration to pursue peace and recover inter-Korean relations.
However, faced with growing criticism, the Sunshine Policy was discontinued under the
next two governments. During Lee Myung-bak and Park Geun-Hye's presidencies, the
relationship between North and South Korea became more hostile.
In 2018, beginning with North Korea's participation in the 2018 Winter Olympics, the
relationship has seen a major diplomatic breakthrough and become significantly warmer.
In April 2018, the two countries signed the Panmunjom Declaration for Peace, Prosperity
and Unification of the Korean Peninsula.] In 2018, a majority of South Koreans approved
the new relationship. The summits between North and South Korea have also facilitated
positive relationships between North Korea and the United States. However, tensions
between the two countries remain.
The Republic of Korea places great importance on its alliances and adherence to the
Rules of Procedure in international affairs. Through diplomatic engagement, regional
cooperation, and commitment to international law, South Korea aims to promote peace,
stability, and prosperity at the regional and global levels. It remains dedicated to
resolving conflicts peacefully, supporting sustainable development, and addressing
shared challenges in collaboration with its allies and partners worldwide.