The article discusses the challenges and perceptions of sovereignty within the Korea-US alliance, highlighting recent events that question the equality of this partnership.
The article by Chun Deok-young, a professor emeritus at Chonnam National University, explores the evolving dynamics of the Korea-US alliance, particularly in light of recent events that highlight imbalances in sovereignty and autonomy. Incidents such as the mass arrest and deportation of Korean experts working at US construction sites, aggressive lobbying efforts by US companies to undermine Korean regulations, and blatant trade pressures have raised serious concerns about whether South Korea is truly a sovereign partner within this alliance. The author poses critical questions about the historical context and the implications of these developments for South Korea's national identity and sovereignty.
He notes that the Korea-US alliance, often viewed as a sacred bond forged during the Korean War, has historically been a realm free from critique, with its origins rooted in moments where South Korea’s fate was dictated by foreign powers, such as the US's decisions during key historical events like the Imo Incident and the Katsura-Taft Agreement. Moreover, the division of Korea along the 38th parallel after the Korean War illustrates how external forces have consistently influenced the trajectory of the Korean nation. The article contends that while South Korea has achieved remarkable economic growth, the structure of dependency on the US remains robust, as exemplified by the substantial financial commitment South Korea has made toward the construction of the US military base Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek, which symbolizes an ongoing reliance on foreign military presence.
In recognizing the shifts in the alliance’s paradigm, the article notes that the US is now expecting South Korea to take on greater responsibilities in deterring North Korea, while simultaneously repositioning US forces in light of strategic interests concerning China. This evolving framework may require South Korea to reassess its autonomy and status in the alliance, questioning whether it can remain a truly sovereign entity or if it will continue to operate under the shadows of external influence. The discussion reflects deeper considerations of national identity, sovereignty, and the future of the Korea-US alliance in a changing geopolitical landscape.
