korean unification studies

Over the last 5 years there has been a lot said about a rise in anti-Americanism in South Korea. Some commentators have gone so far to view it as the end of an era, as South Korea cuts the final threads of an alliance that has lasted more than 50 years. But is it really ending?

One blogger that has been very persistent in his views on the US-ROK relationship, and indeed witnessed some of the worst periods in country during 2002-03, has a different view. Luckily enough, these views are recorded and noted on the site USinKorea.

Basically, the view that is put forward (please correct me if I am wrong, USinKorea) is that the South Korean relationship to the US is based firmly on utilitarianism. Sentiment, shared sacrifice and dedication mean little or nothing. What drives the relationship is obtaining maximum advantage, be it economic or military. Anti-Americanism, far from being a sign of the end of the relationship, is merely a tool. A tool that can be used to further specific goals within the context of the relationship.

Anti-Americanism, spurred on by the administration, will intermittently rear its ugly head and serve a specific purpose, such as altering the basing structure or political parrying, but never will it go so far as to lose South Korean advantage – which currently is the substantial economic benefit of the military alliance.

The views put forward on the site are interesting, albeit controversial (in comparison to the Korean language net). At times, it is hard to ascertain the argument put forward, due to  the sometimes emotive nature of the pieces, which can come across as the rantings of a bitter ex-patriot. But underneath this, which may be directed at attracting readers, there are some interesting and thoughtful explanations. The blogger has also compiled an excellent array of source materials that present a good overview of the rise in anti-Americanism since 2002-03.

For those who have never visited the site, check it out! For those that know the site well and live in Korea, try some of the arguments on a cab driver late on a Saturday night – you’ll only live once…