The Role of ASEAN in South Korea’s Current Foreign Policy in Southeast Asia

Abstract

In the context of Southeast Asia’s regional structure being shaped by the interplay between global strategic competition and the demand for regional integration, South Korea has continuously adjusted its foreign policy to expand its influence and safeguard national interests. One of the important pillars of this strategy is to strengthen relations with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a regional organization that is increasingly playing a central role in shaping the political, economic, and security environment of Southeast Asia. At present, ASEAN has emerged as a key strategic partner in South Korea’s foreign policy toward Southeast Asia. ASEAN is not only a promising market and a hub connecting regional supply chains, but also a platform for enhancing security cooperation, deepening political dialogue, and promoting the spread of Korean cultural influence. This article analyzes ASEAN’s role in South Korea’s foreign policy, thereby shedding further light on South Korea’s regional policy orientation in Southeast Asia.