Distinguished Professor Hong Gyu-deok: 'Korea Needs New Strategy Amidst Global Geopolitical Turmoil'

As of 2026, 61 armed conflicts are occurring in 36 countries worldwide, marking the highest number of wars since World War II. The Northeast Asian region has not entirely escaped the threat of war, necessitating an analysis of the strategy South Korea must adopt amidst global geopolitical turmoil.

Foreign policy and security expert Professor Hong Gyu-deok of Sookmyung Women's University has analyzed the path Korea should take, drawing on his extensive field experience. Professor Hong stated that the Lee Jae-myung administration must formulate a long-term vision for Korea-U.S. relations within the evolving international order.

Professor Hong analyzed that former U.S. President Donald Trump does not view Korea as a traditional ally and perceives Korea's role on the international stage as not significant. He suggested that Korea might not be prominently featured in major issues under a Trump administration. While efforts should be made to avoid discord when the Lee Jae-myung administration expresses dissatisfaction with the U.S., Professor Hong pointed out that before taking hasty actions, the government should first observe how the U.S. will behave in the changing international order and draw up a long-term vision.

North Korea was mentioned in relation to Russia and China in the 2026 Munich Security Conference report. The perspective emerged that North Korea has influenced the war in Ukraine by supplying military personnel, artillery shells, and missiles to Russia. Furthermore, North Korea has recently officially declared its 'two hostile states theory,' escalating threats against South Korea.