Factors Affecting ROK–US Relations, 1990–2011: An Empirical Analysis. (February 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kim, Dohee; Heo, Uk
• Is Part Of: Journal of Asian and African studies. Volume 53:Number 1(2018)
• Page Start: 115
• Page End: 131
• Publication Date: 2018-02
• Subjects: ROK–US relations -- event data -- content analysis -- empirical analysis; Social change -- Africa -- Periodicals; Social change -- Asia -- Periodicals; Economic development -- Africa -- Periodicals; Economic development -- Asia -- Periodicals; Africa -- Social conditions -- Periodicals; Asia -- Social conditions -- Periodicals; Africa -- Periodicals; Asia -- Periodicals; 950
• DOI: 10.1177/0021909616662488
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0021-9096

Abstract

This study investigates what factors affect Republic of Korea (South Korea)–United States (ROK–US) relations based on a theoretical framework, using event data created by content analysis from 1990 to 2011. South Korea's economic development led to democratization, which resulted in elite changes. New progressive elites interpreted national interests differently and demanded changes in ROK–US relations. Accordingly, the ROK–US relationship was tense during the progressive administrations. ROK's economic development attracted more trade with the US, which enhanced the bilateral relationship due to heightened interdependence. By contrast, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea)–US relationship and the trade between ROK and China did not significantly affect ROK– relations, meaning ROK's relationship with other countries does not affect ROK–US relations.