Japan, the United States, and South Korea have bolstered their security cooperation, but the return of Donald Trump and a political crisis threatening South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s leadership cast uncertainty over the future.
Experts predict Trump will revive his “America First” approach, reducing U.S. involvement in East Asian security and challenging the stability of trilateral ties.
Under Biden, the U.S.-Japan-South Korea partnership expanded to include economic security and technology collaboration. However, Trump’s second term is unlikely to sustain this progress.
South Korea faces political turmoil following Yoon’s brief martial law declaration, leading to his impeachment process. A new administration could mean a policy reversal in relations with Japan, especially on historical disputes.
Trump’s return may also pit Japan and South Korea against each other in competing for U.S. favor. Experts emphasize the need for the two nations to develop a joint strategy to counter Trump’s pressure effectively.
