The impact of changes in dominant U.S. threat perception on the cohesion of the U.S.-ROK alliance
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Authors
Noh, Kwangil
Subjects
Alliance cohesion
U.S.-ROK alliance
threat perception
U.S.-ROK alliance
threat perception
Advisors
Huntley, Wade L.
Date of Issue
2014-12
Date
Dec-14
Publisher
Monterey, California: Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This thesis starts from the question of what the key factors are shaping the cohesion of the U.S.-ROK alliance. To answer this question, the author researches how cohesion has evolved since the end of the Korean War. Since previous research has focused on the Korean drivers, this thesis examines dominant U.S. threat perception to balance ROK sides. The U.S. has had four significant crises: Detente, the second Cold War, global terrorism, and the rise of China. Following the four crises, this research divides the whole period into four sub-periods. To gauge alliance cohesion, the author chooses four indicators: official statements and documents by leaders, combined exercises and operations, the institutionalization of the alliance, and combined military capability. The results of the analysis suggest that dominant U.S. threat perception determines the strength of alliance cohesion. When the U.S. perception changed, the cohesion of the U.S.-ROK alliance changed in a same direction. The U.S. does not accept ROK’s attitudes – strengthening or weakening – toward this alliance passively, but actively reflects its interests in alliance cohesion.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
National Security Affairs
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
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Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
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Copyright is reserved by the copyright owner.