A Study on the Cooperation Strategies for Korea-Russia Tourism Exchange in Response to the Changes in the Trump 2.0 Administration’s Russia Policy

Recently, the international political landscape has undergone dramatic changes due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the shift in the U.S. Trump 2.0 administration’s policy toward Russia. In particular, the Trump 2.0 administration’s approach challenges the traditional diplomatic order and is influencing a wide range of sectors under growing geopolitical tensions. Meanwhile, the tourism industry has emerged as a key sector for promoting cultural exchange and economic revitalization between nations. In this context, tourism cooperation between South Korea and Russia is gaining attention as a potential avenue for improving bilateral relations and creating mutual economic benefits. To foster effective cooperation in the tourism sector, it is essential to understand the current military, political, diplomatic, economic, and cultural dimensions of the Trump 2.0 administration’s Russia policy from both positive and negative perspectives. This understanding will help identify what types of cooperation are necessary between Korea and Russia in the tourism field, and why such efforts are important for the future. This study specifically seeks to analyze the impact of the Trump 2.0 administration’s changing Russia policy on Korea-Russia tourism cooperation, examining both the opportunities and challenges it presents. From a positive perspective, it aims to suggest feasible cooperation strategies. In particular, it intends to offer practical solutions that Korea can adopt not only in the current state of international uncertainty but also in anticipation of future normalization of relations with Russia. The findings of this study highlight four key points: First, Korea-Russia tourism exchanges are influenced by international political dynamics and shifting policies. Second, the unique characteristics of the tourism industries in both countries present opportunities for cooperation. Third, both promising prospects and potential risks coexist. Fourth, there is a clear need for policy development and cooperative strategies. In the short term, diplomatic channels and digital marketing should be strengthened, while in the mid-to-long term, institutional improvements, infrastructure investment, and professional workforce development should be addressed through detailed cooperation strategies and a long-term roadmap.