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The South China Sea in ASEAN–Republic of Korea Relations: Strategic Interests and Maritime Security Cooperation in Historical Perspective

The South China Sea in ASEAN–Republic of Korea Relations: Strategic Interests and Maritime Security Cooperation in Historical Perspective
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Author(s): Phan Thi Anh Thu (University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)
Copyright: 2026
Pages: 24
Source title: Emerging Maritime Security Strategies of Global Powers
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Kiet Hoang Le (University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam)and Hiep Xuan Tran (University of Science and Education, The University of Da Nang, Vietnam)
DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3373-4470-6.ch007

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Abstract

This chapter examines the South China Sea as a pivotal strategic space in Republic of Korea (ROK)–ASEAN relations since the early twenty-first century. Rather than focusing solely on sovereignty disputes, it conceptualizes the South China Sea as a multi-layered power structure where maritime economic interests, sea-lane security, and great-power competition intersect. The analysis explores how ASEAN employs international law, multilateral institutions, and functional cooperation to manage conflicts and preserve regional centrality, while the ROK, as a middle power, pursues calibrated engagement through ASEAN-led mechanisms to safeguard maritime interests without escalating strategic confrontation. This study positions the South China Sea as an illuminating case for understanding indirect middle-power engagement in regional security governance amid intensifying geopolitical pressures.

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