United States National Interests in the Republic of Korea.
Abstract
This thesis analyzes the evolution of United States political, economic, and strategic interests in the Republic of Korea. A discussion on what is the national interest and a framework to discuss those interest is provided. United States political interests are discussed by examining the highlights of Korean politics following the Second World War with a focus on current political topics. United States economic interests are viewed in light of the economic progress South Korea has made following the Korean war and potential promise for the future. In discussing the strategic interests of the United States, a regional assessment of the balance of power is made. Special emphasis is placed on current strategic issues. This thesis concludes: 1) The United States has a vital strategic interest in peace and stability on the Korean peninsula which warrants continued security assistance to the ROK and maintenance of U.S. military forces on the peninsula, 2) The United States has a major economic interest in the ROK with growing trade between the two countries and significant U.S. business investments in South Korea, and 3) The United States has a major political interest in continued North-South dialogue as well as a peripheral interest in constitutional reform and human rights in the ROK.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA174004
Entities
People
- Steven K. Sudderth
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School