Seoul should stick to clear, consistent diplomatic principles: experts


South Korea’s diplomacy is facing a major test as a set of long-standing issues concerning Japan and China came to a head this week and raised tensions with the two powers that are crucial for Seoul in terms of economic and security cooperation.

Seoul also faces a tough decision over how to respond to U.S. moves to toughen sanctions against Iran for its disputed nuclear programs. It is concerned about the economic impact an anti-Tehran move could bring about in the local economy.

Tension with Japan rose on Wednesday as a civic group established a “Peace Statue” in front of the Japanese Embassy in Seoul, calling for Tokyo’s apology and for adequate compensation for former “comfort women” who were forced into sexual slavery during World War II.

Public sentiment here against China has worsened since the captain of an illegal Chinese fishing boat allegedly killed a Korea Coast Guard officer on Monday. Public anger further deepened as Beijing only expressed regret, falling short of offering an official apology.

Experts said that at this time of diplomatic challenges, Seoul should establish a “clear, consistent” principle that is in the best interests of the country and acceptable within the international community.

“How we deal with such cases would reflect our national dignity. We should think about what responses (to these cases) would enhance our national dignity. First of all, we need to have a clear principle, which is universally acceptable in light of international norms,” said Kim Tae-hyun, professor at the Graduate School of International Studies at Chung-Ang University. 

“Our action should be based on the principle. But as every country has limits in its national power, we also need to exercise restraint. However, we should sternly handle cases in which our national interests are undermined and our territory is invaded.”

Particularly in the case of sanctions against Iran, many have concurred that Seoul should show “consistency” in its policy against denuclearization.

“It would apparently be difficult for Seoul as Iran and Korea have growing trade relations. But what would they think when Seoul says it cannot participate in the U.S.-led sanctions while calling for help from the international community in North Korea’s denuclearization?,” said Nam Chang-hee, political science professor at Inha University.

“Its (denuclearization) policy should be consistent. If not, there would be no rationale to call for denuclearizing the North. While joining the sanctions, the government can implement measures, perhaps in steps, to minimize negative ramifications on the local industries.”

The U.S. Congress is seeking legislation on tougher sanctions against Tehran’s central bank, a move after the International Atomic Energy Agency issued a report on suspicion of Iran’s nuclear development last month.

Seoul is looking at the Iranian issue in light of the long-standing alliance with Washington, but finds it difficult to reach a decision that could strain ties with Iran given growing bilateral economic cooperation.

As of the end of October, Seoul imported 74.234 million barrels of crude oil, which account for 9.6 percent of the total oil imports.

Professor Kim said, “Iran is going against the international principle of non-proliferation. Media talk about the possible damage from bad relations with Iran, but in this case, we should put our priority on keeping our principle than on (simply protecting economic benefits).”

Noting that the issue on comfort women has long been a thorny issue between the two countries, experts said that Seoul and Tokyo should make more efforts to resolve it rather than hastily handling the issue.

“Korea, of course, hopes Japan comes forward to accept the past, repent and offer compensation for them to play a responsible role in the international community,” said Chung Jin-young, international relations professor at Kyunghee University.

“As this issue is related to domestic politics in Japan, this long-standing issue cannot be immediately resolved. Both should make more efforts to reach a resolution. It is inappropriate to say that our diplomacy is a failure or anything because of this.”

Concerning China, experts say that worsened public sentiment over the killing of the KCG officer would not seriously damage South Korea-China ties as the two countries are increasingly dependent on each other for economic and other reasons.

“South Korea-China relations cannot help but face difficulties due to the long-standing alliance between Seoul and Washington. But in terms of economy, China also wants to maintain good relations with the South,” said Chung.

Nam stressed that Seoul should capitalize on its network of countries with which it shares common values of democracy and market economy and make the best of its “soft power” so that it can make coordinated, effective responses to future diplomatic challenges.

“If we use a cooperative network of countries such as Japan, Australia and NATO in addressing diplomatic difficulties, we can exercise national power that is bigger than our actual power,” he said.

“We should strengthen our diplomacy that is fit for our status as a middle power. By mixing our soft power and public diplomacy, we can create more diplomatic strength. This is particularly crucial for a country where big powers conflict such as South Korea.”

By Song Sang-ho (sshluck@heraldcorp.com)