A revived trilateral- Japan and South Korea are shoring up security

Source: The post is based on the article “A revived trilateral- Japan and South Korea are shoring up security” published in “Business Standard” on 23rd August 2023.

Syllabus: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

News: This article discusses how Japan, South Korea, and the US held a significant summit at Camp David, reinforcing ties to address security and economic concerns in the Indo-Pacific. These efforts are influenced by historical factors, China’s actions, and shifts in global partnerships.

About Trilateral Summit at Camp David:

Japan, South Korea, and the US met to deepen cooperation.

The summit aimed at addressing security and economic concerns in the Indo-Pacific.

Prompted by historical grievances, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol took initiatives to mend ties.

Resulted in both nations lifting export controls and resuming high-level defence and economic talks.

How has the relationship between Japan and South Korea evolved?

Historical:

The relationship was strained due to the Japanese occupation of Korea.

A significant issue was Korean women forced into prostitution during this occupation.

Recent Changes:

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol proposed a compromise on historical grievances.

He made the first visit to Tokyo by a Korean leader in 12 years.

Both countries lifted export controls against each other.

They resumed high-level defence and economic talks, indicating improved ties and cooperation.

What are the impacts of these summits?

Indo-Pacific Security:

The trilateral summit between Japan, South Korea, and the US can enhance security in the Indo-Pacific against potential threats.

Japan desires greater engagement with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

South Korea’s arms export industry grew rapidly between 2017 and 2021, emphasizing its role in regional defense.

Impacts on India and Quad:

Questions arise about India’s capability and willingness to partner with the West.

As the Quad prioritizes development, other regions are forming alternative, security-centric alliances.

Economic Security:

Countries aim to diversify from China-centric supply chains for stability.

Japanese and South Korean companies express concerns about their supply chain vulnerabilities intersecting with both the West and China.

These corporations believe that a trilateral partnership can protect them against US protectionist policies and other geopolitical risks.