National Role Conceptions in the ‘Global Korea’ Foreign Policy Strategy

Abstract

This article analyses the ‘Global Korea’ foreign policy strategy using the role theory framework of foreign policy analysis. A number of roles held by foreign policy makers form the ‘national role conception’ which describes the shared understanding concerning the proper role and purpose of a nation as a player in the international arena. These roles are affected by the expectations of the international system with its underlying norms as well as domestic interpretations of such norms. Domestic trends and socialization also contribute to the national role conception. I identify the national role conception of Korean foreign policy makers and the influences on the recent changes in their conception. The study explores how the actors interpret and perceive the functions and roles national foreign policy fulfills. The ‘Global Korea’ foreign policy initiative of the Lee Myung-bak government is the source material for a content analysis to gain insights in the influences on the construction of their role performance. South Korea increased its overseas development aid and participation in peacekeeping operations. Other roles include the repositioning as a global player, a culturally relevant nation as well as an economic power. The latter two roles are highlighted in the ‘Global Korea’ initiative, showing the domestic influences and continuation of previous role performances on national role conception among foreign policy makers. The analysis shows the linkage of foreign policy making and roles that are influenced by cultural and societal factors.