Chun In-bum
A new administration will confront the many challenges that the United States faces both internally and internationally to Make America Great Again. Despite concerns about an "America First" policy, a strong United States ultimately serves the best interests of many nations, including the Republic of Korea. Koreans are concerned about the economic effects that a Trump presidency might have on the Korean economy and security. While Donald Trump’s emphasis on tariffs raises concerns for South Korea, a strong U.S. economy ultimately benefits both Korea and the broader free world.
South Korea benefited from the ROK-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty that has been the basis on which the Korean people were able to build an economy and become the democracy that it is today. Not only did the United States lose 37,000 lives fighting the communists during the Korean War, but since the armistice, more than 640 Americans lost their lives providing stability and protecting peace on the Korean Peninsula. Conversely, South Korea has been a strong supporter of the United States, exemplified by the seven and a half years of troop deployment to Vietnam of more than 350,000 soldiers, of which 25,000 soldiers became casualties.
Conservatives in Korea have a deep appreciation and trust of the United States that borders on dependency. They have religious, societal and security ties with the United States. Progressives in South Korea see the United States differently. The progressive view is that the United States is a necessary evil. If the ultra-right conservatives can be criticized for worshiping the United States then the ultra-left’s agenda borders that of North Korean propaganda. The ultra-left advocates for the withdrawal of U.S. Forces from Korea — destroy the Republic of Korea and unify under North Korea’s Kim Jong-un. There is no denying that such elements exist in South Korea and they utilize freedom of speech and the legal system to express their views. At the root of the polarization in South Korean society, rests the struggle between the right and the left.
Conservatives have no issue with taking on more responsibility for South Korean defense and contributing more to U.S. troops in Korea. If a confrontation between the U.S. and China occurs, the conservatives and the right wing will be more than willing to adhere to the ROK-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty. Liberal progressives will also do this, albeit, reluctantly but the ultra-left is a different story. The ultra-left who have concepts and ideas that are aligned with North Korea and possibly Chinese support is a significant danger to South Korea.
The key is in those who recognize themselves as moderates. The ultra-left has long ago realized that influencing the education system and entertainment industry is the key to public opinion. With these and other tools, they disguise themselves as legitimate politicians and media as well as other professions. This is one reason why Yoon believed declaring martial law was the only way to defend the Republic of Korea, rather than doing good politics. Yoon’s failed martial law attempt has given the ultra-left an opportunity to dominate the narrative and gain a majority of the moderates in Korea. This divide is also the reason that despite Yoon’s failed martial law, 30 percent still support the conservatives.
With a new president in the U.S., there is concern that the Trump administration will attempt to reach a deal with North Korea, leaving the South Koreans out. The other issue is involvement in a U.S.-China conflict and cost-sharing. The conservatives know their responsibilities and are prepared to fulfill their duties. The undecided moderates, on the other hand, are prey to the narratives of the ultra-left: the U.S. is attempting to extort money from Korea; the U.S. is against Korean unification; Why should Korea get involved in a U.S.-China conflict; South Korea doesn’t need Japan as a friend much less an ally.
South Korean and U.S. leaders must work to counter negative narratives and emphasize the mutual benefits of the partnership. As the Trump administration starts its policy initiatives in Korea, it must not take lightly this very well-organized anti-U.S. element that is entrenched in South Korean society and supported by North Korea, which is adept at manipulating narratives.
The ROK-U.S. alliance is a testament to what nations can achieve through mutual trust and shared values. As the Trump administration navigates its path forward, reaffirming this partnership is not only a strategic imperative but also a moral one. By addressing economic concerns, countering criticism and fostering bipartisan support, both nations can ensure the continued success of this alliance. South Korean and U.S. leaders must actively counter negative narratives by enhancing public diplomacy, emphasizing the tangible benefits of the alliance to the Korean and American public and fostering mutual cultural understanding. Most of all, the new U.S. administration must not give a propaganda item for the ultra-left to exploit.
Coordinated efforts, such as the Nuclear Consultative Group must continue. Enhanced joint educational initiatives, cultural exchange programs and public awareness campaigns can help solidify the alliance's importance in the hearts and minds of the people. Additionally, addressing emerging challenges, such as cyber threats and global trade dynamics, through collaborative initiatives will demonstrate the alliance's adaptability and resilience in the face of a changing world. Together, the United States and South Korea can face these challenges with a unified vision, standing as enduring pillars of security, democracy and prosperity in the region and beyond.
Chun In-bum (truechun@naver.com) served as a lieutenant general in the ROK Army and was commander of Special Forces Korea.
