In light of the geopolitical changes following the Russia-Ukraine war, focus has shifted towards Northeast Asia, where the dynamics of power are evolving, particularly involving China and Russia. This change is primarily driven by these countries' intentions to project their influence in Northeast Asia. At the center of this shift is the Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI), which has become increasingly relevant as it addresses the development needs and strategic gaps in the region. The GTI serves as a platform where interests converge, particularly with China's desire to alleviate stagnation in its northeastern provinces, Russia's aim to position its Far East as a central axis of its Eurasian strategy, and North Korea's push for expanded cooperation with China and Russia, thus creating a niche free from Western order influence.

The article calls for South Korea, as a member of the GTI, to intervene proactively in building governance frameworks to effectively navigate its interests in the region. By becoming actively involved, South Korea can better understand the initiatives being proposed by China, Russia, Mongolia, and potentially North Korea. The article suggests that if Korea remains passive, the framework may solidify into one dominated by China, diminishing Korea's leadership opportunities even if North Korea later chooses to participate. This moment represents a critical time for South Korea to enhance its institutional influence within the GTI, directly engaging in the configuration of a new order in the North.

Furthermore, the strategic value of the GTI becomes especially clear when linked to inter-Korean economic cooperation. Such multilateral cooperation mechanisms like GTI can provide indirect collaboration opportunities between the North and South, even when direct cooperation encounters obstacles. Korea’s proactive participation is crucial in leveraging the GTI as a strategic platform rather than a sporadic meeting venue, potentially positioning it as a mediator among China, Russia, Mongolia, and a future participating North Korea, thereby strengthening its institutional role in shaping Northeast Asian geopolitics.