Jihwan Hwang, Professor at the University of Seoul, analyzes that the Trump administration’s second-term National Security Strategy (NSS) and National Defense Strategy (NDS) reflect the “Donroe Doctrine,” which prioritizes the Western Hemisphere while reducing engagement in the Indo-Pacific. The author projects that as the U.S. seeks “decent peace” rather than confrontation with China, the North Korean issue may also be reshaped within the broader framework of U.S.-China relations. Professor Hwang suggests that, amidst the weakening of U.S. security commitments and demands for increa...

Commentary

• Jihwan HWANG
• February 10, 2026

Leif-Eric Easley (Professor, Ewha Womans University) explores the significance of the individual level of analysis in international relations, particularly concerning the potential restart of summits with North Korea. The author outlines twelve categories of leader-specific variables, such as personal characteristics and political ideology, to examine how the leadership styles of Donald Trump, Kim Jong-un, and Lee Jae-myung might shape future diplomatic outcomes. Prof. Easley emphasizes that while individual agency is critical, sustainable summitry must be anchored in institutional frameworks ...

Commentary

• Leif-Eric EASLEY
• February 06, 2026

Chaesung Chun, President of EAI (Professor at Seoul National University), analyzes North Korea’s recent emphasis on ‘multipolarization,’ not merely as an assessment of the international landscape, but as a strategic rhetoric intended to justify the survival of the regime and the reinforcement of nuclear capabilities. The author points out that North Korea exhibits a form of "strategic ambiguity" by participating in the anti-American front, while simultaneously seeking to avoid subordination to China and Russia. President Chun suggests that these shifts could create structural vulnerabili...

Commentary

• Chaesung CHUN
• February 02, 2026