Trilateral cooperation among the United States, Japan, and South Korea has proved challenging over the years, owing largely to historical tensions. As a result, this project has sought perspectives from next-generation leaders of the three countries to define areas where targeted, flexible, and informal cooperative arrangements can provide clear mutual benefit to all. The group ascertained that future cooperation should center on tackling shared challenges including addressing an increasingly belligerent China through proactive yet constructive methods. The three countries can most effectively collaborate by focusing on innovative technologies, as well as small yet meaningful building blocks for democracy to avoid unnecessary flare ups. Lastly, long lasting trilateral progress requires coupling high-level government dialogues with civil society engagements. Through the incorporation of such strategies, the United States, South Korea, and Japan can ensure that trilateral cooperation not only advances but also perseveres in the face of domestic political challenges and a rapidly evolving international environment.
Center for Maritime Strategy
Andrew I. Park
External Source: Atlantic Council's Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security
Trilateral cooperation among the United States, Japan, and South Korea has proved challenging over the years, owing largely to historical tensions. As a result, this project has sought perspectives from next-generation leaders of the three countries to define areas where targeted, flexible, and informal cooperative arrangements can provide clear mutual benefit to all. The group ascertained that future cooperation should center on tackling shared challenges including addressing an increasingly belligerent China through proactive yet constructive methods. The three countries can most effectively collaborate by focusing on innovative technologies, as well as small yet meaningful building blocks for democracy to avoid unnecessary flare ups. Lastly, long lasting trilateral progress requires coupling high-level government dialogues with civil society engagements. Through the incorporation of such strategies, the United States, South Korea, and Japan can ensure that trilateral cooperation not only advances but also perseveres in the face of domestic political challenges and a rapidly evolving international environment.
The full issue brief is available at Atlantic Council's Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security
Andrew I. Park, Senior Analyst