A relational approach to Indo-Pacific strategies: South Korea's role in a networked regional architecture

Abstract

How do regional actors perceive South Korea's role in the Indo-Pacific? Using South Korea as a reference point, this introductory paper to the Special Issue adopts the analogy of “network structures” to examine how the network of Indo-Pacific relations shapes actors' perceptions and interactions with other states in the region. South Korea's relationship with other actors in the Indo-Pacific is not just a function of bilateral relations. It is influenced by the larger strategic environment and the dynamic relationships that exist among network actors. By analyzing the Indo-Pacific strategies of several states comparatively, we aim to better understand South Korea's role and place within the broader regional strategic network. We advocate a relational approach to understanding regional dynamics in the Indo-Pacific that moves past traditional international relations paradigms.