Progress has been made by the United States to institutionalize three-way strategic cooperation with the ROK and Japan. Under this framework, North Korea, China and Russia are all targeted as America attempts to counterbalance China collectively and comprehensively. The concept is doomed.

Trilateral cooperation between the United States, Japan and South Korea seems to have solidified recently, although they have not announced a formal alliance. But differences in their views on China and deep-rooted frictions will likely hinder the ongoing pace of concerted action.

South Korea’s relationship with the U.S. as a protectorate has benefited Seoul strategically and economically. As tensions between China and the U.S. change the geopolitical climate of the region, South Korea may want to reevaluate the cost of a large U.S. military presence in their territory.

Amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, the Biden administration orchestrated a significant breakthrough by fostering closer relations between South Korea and Japan. This shift is underscored by a recent trilateral summit involving the U.S., Japan, and South Korea, where leaders addressed shared challenges posed by China and North Korea. This collaboration signifies a critical step towards regional security, economic resilience, and a unified approach to navigating the dynamics of the Indo-Pacific.

The Biden administration recently wrapped up two important state visits with President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea and President Ferdinand Marcos of the Philippines. The meetings signify that Biden is on a trek to improve and affirm ties with key Indo-Pacific countries, but it must continue this trend if the U.S. wishes to remain relevant in the region.

No leader of a U.S. ally has ever made such a show of fidelity before a trip to Washington. Yoon swiftly patched up relations with Japan, announced military aid to Ukraine and made comments on Taiwan.