A Study On The Balance Strategy Of Korea And China In The Period Of Pu Gui - Hui 's Government

The United States is a traditional ally and supporter of the Republic of Korea. Since the founding of the ROK, America has played a vital role in its foreign policies. It is said that the U.S.-ROK relationship is on the top of Korea’s diplomatic strategy. On the other side, although China and Republic of Korea established the diplomatic ties not long ago, they have seen a rapid development of their relations in many fields such as politics, economy, culture and the military over more than 20 years. When President Park Geun-hye took office at the end of 2012, the United States adopted the “Pivoting Strategy”, attempting to show its power in the AsianPacific region. On the other hand, China’s breathtaking economic growth and the increasingly important role it plays both in the region and the whole world make it more urgent for the Korea to deepen its strategic cooperative partnership with China. In this context, Park Geun-hye government adheres to the balancing strategy, aiming to fully utilize the strength of both China and the U.S. to obtain a far better chance of growing and achieve their national strategic development goal of “security and prosperity”.This flexible balancing strategy has brought many diplomatic benefits to the Republic of Korea, however, its foreign policy still faces severe constraints, which is caused by the limitations of the U.S.-ROK alliance as well as its geographical disadvantages. Korea should not take an ambiguous attitude on many issues relating to the differences of interests between China and the United States. It is more wise for Korea to have a clear picture of the present situation in Northeast Asia, make use of its own advantages and act as the “bridge” between great powers. Only in this way can Korea carry forward its independent diplomacy and enhance its international position. Researching Park Geun-hye government’s balancing strategy between China and the United States, we can better forecast the foreign policy of Korea in the long run. It is also of great significance to our Chinese government in making its foreign policy on the Republic of Korea.