2024 CSPS-K Symposium: The Role of Korea in the Evolving Indo-Pacific Security Dynamics

The Center for Security Policy Studies-Korea (CSPS-K) hosted the 2024 CSPS-Korea International Security Symposium on June 14, 2024, under the theme “The Role of Korea in the Evolving Indo-Pacific Security Dynamics.” This year’s symposium concentrated on the volatile security landscape of the Indo-Pacific region, examining its challenges amid Great Power rivalry and South Korea’s pivotal role as a middle power. The symposium provided a comprehensive analysis of the latest paradigms in the Indo-Pacific and coordinated diplomatic and public policy efforts. By facilitating discussions among academics, policymakers, and experts, the symposium featured invaluable insights into geopolitical circumstances, regional security, and the global order. The Symposium had two distinct sessions with panel discussions.

Session 1: Changing Security Dynamics in the Indo-Pacific and Challenges

The first session, themed “Changing Security Dynamics in the Indo-Pacific and Challenges,” focused on conceptual, analytical, and scholarly approaches to the critical Indo-Pacific security challenges and security trouble spots.

Presentations

• Dr. Chaesung Chun, Seoul National University
  “Maintaining Strategic Stability in the U.S.-China Rivalry”
• Dr. Ketian Zhang, Schar School of Policy and Government, George Mason University
  “Great Power Rivalry and China’s Response”
• Dr. Jae Jeok Park, Yonsei University
  “A South Korean Perspective on the U.S.-led Security Network in the Indo-Pacific”
• Dr. Michael Hunzeker, Schar School of Policy and Government, George Mason University
  “Reputation or Reliability? Washington’s Options in a Taiwan Crisis”

The presentations were followed by a 30-minute panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Michael Hunzeker. This discussion highlighted the strategic objectives and responses of key nations, and examined the role of security networks and alliances in the Indo-Pacific region.

Session 2: South Korea’s Contributions as a Middle Power to Regional Security

The second session, themed “South Korea’s Contributions as a Middle Power to Regional Security,” had a more pragmatic, experiential, and policy-centric tone in discussing South Korea’s role amidst the region’s prevailing security challenges.

Remarks

• Ambassador Kathleen Stephens, Former Ambassador of the U.S. to Korea
• Ambassador Ho-Young Ahn, Former Ambassador of Korea to the U.S.
• Ambassador Jung-Seung Shin, Former Ambassador of Korea to China

The remarks were followed by a 30-minute panel discussion, moderated by Prof. Ellen Laipson, Director of the Center for Security Policy Studies, George Mason University. The panel discussion highlighted the need for consistent policy implementation, strengthening capabilities, and fostering diplomatic environments conducive to peace and prosperity.

The symposium concluded successfully, marked by great presentations and insightful remarks from the panelists. We extend our deepest gratitude to the distinguished speakers, faculty members, CSPS-K fellows, senior and honorary fellows whose contributions were crucial to the symposium’s success. We also express our sincere appreciation to the special guests in attendance.

2024 CSPS-K Symposium Program Book