Strategic Complexities in Northeast Asia: Nuclear Politics, Great Power Relations, and Regional Security Dynamics.

This panel examines the intricate web of security relationships, strategic cultures, and foreign policy dynamics in Northeast Asia, with a particular focus on the Korean Peninsula and its regional implications. The discussions will analyze diverse yet interconnected themes, from the impact of populism on foreign security policies in Taiwan and South Korea to the complex diplomatic relationships between the two Koreas and their engagement with international actors. The panel will explore North Korea's strategic positioning in the context of what it perceives as 'the New Cold War,' particularly focusing on its strengthening ties with Russia. Special attention will be given to understanding North Korea's nuclear program through the lens of its strategic culture, while also examining how US-China competition influences inter-Korean relations during the Kim Jong Un era. Additionally, the panel will provide unique insights into both Koreas' diplomatic approaches toward the Middle East, specifically their policies regarding Israel. Through these multifaceted analyses, the panel offers a comprehensive understanding of the evolving security landscape in Northeast Asia and its broader global implications.