Korea's Middle‐Power Diplomacy in the 21st Century

Most theories of international relations ( IR ) have been concerned for a long time with national interest, alliance, international conflict and peace, and the world system; and they intend to explain and predict conflict and cooperation between major powers. In the early 1990s, some IR theorists began to discuss the notion of “middle‐power diplomacy” in connection to middle‐level powers, such as C anada and A ustralia, which enjoy substantial influence and respect in international society. Middle‐power theory, however, has not yet been accepted as a mainstream IR theory, since its main research topics include “soft” issues instead of hard issues of a global nature involving the U nited S tates or other major players. In the 20th century, the national power of the R epublic of K orea increased rapidly, and the country is now recognized as a middle power. The ROK should also play a leading role in developing new international norms and forging international consensus in human security and related areas. Toward this goal, S outh K orea should strengthen its diplomatic capability to resolve conflicts and promote cooperation in the international community. She should fully utilize a wide spectrum of diplomatic channels and tools, including public diplomacy, inter‐state networks, NGOs , and multilateral T rack II diplomacy.