The longstanding grievances between Japan and South Korea have posed a significant challenge to U.S. security interests in the Asian region. Resentment over Japan’s colonial occupation and Tokyo’s failure to acknowledge its past have undermined efforts to present a united front among American allies. However, given the worsening security situation in the region, President Biden’s upcoming summit with the leaders of Japan and South Korea provides a crucial opportunity to address these issues.
A united front between Japan, South Korea, and the United States is more than just a military alliance. It is a necessity in the face of rising illiberalism, economic coercion, and threats to global norms from countries like China and Russia. The collective power of these three democracies, economies, and technology leaders can serve as a bulwark for the rules-based international order. Maintaining unity is essential for achieving this goal.
By choosing Camp David as the location for the summit, President Biden has demonstrated the gravity of the situation. Camp David has been the site of significant diplomatic events in the past, such as the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt in 1978. Holding the summit at this historic location emphasizes the importance of the trilateral partnership to audiences in the three countries and the rest of the world.
Fortunately, the relationship between Japan and South Korea is showing signs of improvement. Both leaders have recognized the need to align more closely with the United States in the face of China’s challenge to American power. However, this progress remains fragile and susceptible to changes in domestic politics. With important elections looming for all three leaders, it is crucial that they convey a commitment to collective security that can withstand political shifts.
Historical divisions between Japan and South Korea have been exploited by China and North Korea in the past. China has imposed economic penalties on South Korea, while North Korea has used the possibility of returning abducted Japanese citizens as leverage. The strategic partnership between the three countries must overcome these obstacles to effectively respond to regional challenges.
The upcoming summit is expected to result in increased military cooperation and coordination. However, the relationship between these three countries extends beyond defense and encompasses trade, industry, and innovation. The summit should reflect this comprehensive partnership and outline a vision for further collaboration on issues such as technology, supply chains, and economic security.
Most importantly, President Biden must emphasize that the paradigm in Asia has changed. Japan and South Korea must recognize that their security is interconnected and that they cannot ignore threats or attacks against each other. Addressing concerns of being dragged into someone else’s fight is essential. Differences and tensions only serve to benefit China and North Korea.
The Biden administration has supported the improvement in Japan-South Korea relations thus far, and it must build upon this progress at the Camp David summit. By solidifying their commitment to a united front, the three leaders can effectively address regional challenges and ensure long-term stability and security in Asia.
Daniel Russel is the vice president for International Security and Diplomacy at the Asia Society Policy Institute in New York and previously served as assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs under President Barack Obama.
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