Analysis: Trump as a catalyst for nationalist populism in South Korea

Trump's rhetoric highlights America's self-interest at the expense of allies and will stir latent nationalism in South Korea…

Event or Trend: Donald Trump's rhetoric and foreign policy actions often highlight America's self-interest at the expense of traditional allies. In South Korea, his transactional approach, including demands for increased defense cost-sharing and ambivalence towards longstanding alliances, has stirred public debates over national sovereignty and anti-Americanism.

Significance: As one of the United States' most critical allies in Asia, South Korea's political and public sentiment towards the U.S. significantly impacts regional stability, defense strategy, and trade. While anti-American sentiment has always simmered under the surface in South Korea, Trump's actions have reinvigorated nationalist narratives.

This shift is critical for policymakers because it may reshape South Korea’s domestic politics and foreign policy, potentially weakening the U.S.-South Korea alliance and strengthening China’s regional influence. Understanding this dynamic is essential for anticipating changes in Northe…