Asian Security Allies Explore Alternatives Amid US Uncertainty

A discussion exploring realistic alternatives for Asian security in the era of "America First" was held at the Jeju Forum. At the 21st Jeju Forum, held on June 24 at the Haevichi Hotel in Jeju under the theme 'Reimagining Cooperation in an Era of Division,' various approaches were presented regarding the security dilemmas faced by Asian nations in light of recent changes in the international order and the US policy stance.

In a discussion that day, former Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono argued that a Plan B for 'Asian security without the US' is impossible and that a 'Plan A+' is needed. He emphasized that a Plan B, meaning 'security without the US,' is unrealistic in East Asia, unlike in Europe, and that a 'Plan A+' focused on strengthening security cooperation with Europe is necessary. Kono stressed that the US is an indispensable presence for East Asian security and proposed that South Korea and Japan should enhance their security cooperation, not just their economic ties.

In contrast, former Australian Foreign Minister Gareth Evans proposed restoring the security order through multilateral cooperation among middle powers. Evans argued that the international order had been shaken by US missteps and that middle powers such as South Korea, Japan, Australia, and Indonesia should cooperate without solely relying on US alliances to create multilateral alternatives and restore the previous order. He added that while efforts to balance with the US are necessary for information and advanced technology exchange, cooperation among middle powers is crucial.

Differences in their views also emerged regarding China. Kono stated that Japan and South Korea's economies are deeply connected with China and cannot be severed, but they must be wary. Evans, on the other hand, argued for promoting East Asian stability through a more rational response to China's rise and by acknowledging China's role.