Brookings: Topics - Northeast Asia

The Hidden People of North Korea: Everyday Life in the Hermit Kingdom

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 10, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

On November 10, Brookings Nonresident Senior Fellow Kongdan Oh and Ralph Hassig, adjunct associate professor of psychology at the University of Maryland University College, discussed their new book The Hidden People of North Korea: Everyday Life in the Hermit Kingdom (Rowman & Littlefield, 2009). For decades, the people of North Korea have lived in extreme isolation under a closed and repressive regime, where individual rights are restricted and the regime exercises complete control over the political class and legal systems.

After the Election: Will Japan be Different?

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Japan’s August 30 general election, in which the long ruling Liberal Democratic Party was swept from power by the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ), was a watershed event in that nation’s post-War history, writes CNAPS Visiting Fellow Shoichi Itoh. Will the DPJ’s victory lead to substantial changes in Japan’s policy-making process and outcomes?

Regional Multilateralism in Asia and the Korean Question

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Korean peninsula served as the battleground for an internationalized civil war from 1950-1953. Over a half-century later, the peninsula is still divided and the Korean question remains unresolved. In this CNAPS visiting fellow working paper, Wonhyuk Lim writes that placing Korean unification within the broader context of regional integration in Asia may be an effective geopolitical strategy for the Korean nation.

Pressing Pyongyang on Rights

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The now-defunct six-party talks in which the U.S., South Korea, Japan, Russia, and China participated focused almost exclusively on North Korea's nuclear weapons program. But, as Roberta Cohen argues, with a struggle for succession underway in Pyongyang and some of the country's internal controls reportedly beginning to erode, it's the time to rethink the near-exclusion of human rights from the U.S.-North Korean dialogue.

The Changing Roles of Media in Taiwan's Democratization Process

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Senior journalist and CNAPS Visiting Fellow Huang Ching-Lung writes that Taiwan’s media, despite major contributions to democratization, has come to play a controversial and often negative role in the democratization process. Factors such as market competition, lack of professional organization, and ties to political parties have lowered the quality social benefit of journalism in Taiwan, Mr. Huang writes.

Raising Human Rights with North Korea

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. government's policies toward North Korea in recent years have drawn criticism for focusing primarily on denuclearization, while neglecting human rights issues, even as the country's human rights situation remains dire. Roberta Cohen says arguments against including human rights in discussions with North Korea are flawed and recommends integrating human rights as part of an overall U.S. policy toward North Korea.

Building Asia Pacific Regional Architecture

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Asia Pacific region has undergone fundamental changes since the Cold War. Once perceived as institutionally underdeveloped, a wide range of regional community building initiatives has transformed Asia’s institution-building and major power relations. Richard Weixing Hu, CNAPS visiting fellow, writes that this institutional proliferation now poses challenges to regional community building, and explores how a stable regional architecture may be constructed.

North Korea’s Nuclear and Missile Tests and the Six-Party Talks: Where Do We Go From Here?

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In testimony before Congress on June 17, senior fellow and CNAPS director Richard Bush described how North Korea’s recent nuclear and missile tests have transformed the challenge faced by the international system. Dr. Bush testified that it is now clear that North Korea bases its security on nuclear weapons, and the hope that it will abandon the nuclear option has disappeared.

North Korea Collapse Scenarios

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Iraq and Afghanistan continue to pre-occupy U.S. military planners. But North Korea, with its growing nuclear arsenal, would become America's paramount security challenge if the state were to collapse. Michael O’Hanlon writes that the United States and other nations must begin detailed and coordinated planning for stabilization in the event of collapse of the North Korean state.

It is China that Holds the Key to North Korea

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In recent months, North Korea has unabashedly plowed forward with the development of its nuclear program, an action that threatens to erode regional stability in Northeast Asia. Dennis Wilder examines the role of China in reducing the North Korean threat and explores the causes, pointing to necessary limits of China’s calculated caution toward North Korea.

North Korea’s Nuclear Paradox

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On May 25, 2009, North Korea (DPRK) conducted its second underground nuclear test—believed to be larger than its 2006 test—and drew swift condemnation from the U.N. Security Council and many nations. Linbo Jin outlines the reasons why the DPRK persists in pursuing nuclear weapons in defiance of the international community.

President Obama's Response to North Korea's Nuclear Test

Wed, 27 May 2009 09:51:59 GMT

The United Nations Security Council, President Obama and other global leaders have condemned North Korea’s recent nuclear test and the launch of several short range missiles. Richard Bush, director of the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies, examines North Korea’s bold actions and considers how the United States might respond.

North Korea's Nuclear Bargain

Tue, 26 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As North Korea continues to challenge the international community with its nuclear ambitions, Richard Bush examines Kim Jong Il's reasoning behind the nuclear test. Bush argues that North Korea's latest provocation is an attempt to frame de-nuclearization negotiations on the most favorable terms by putting the Obama administration on the defensive.

Simulation of a Crisis in the Taiwan Strait

Wed, 20 May 2009 08:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 20, 2009, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
May 21, 2009, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Together with the ICONS Project at the University of Maryland, Brookings held a two-day exercise on May 20 and 21, 2009 simulating a crisis in the Taiwan Strait. Among other results, participants found that accidental war in the Taiwan Strait was less likely than an escalating crisis over real, substantive issues of importance to the two sides of the Strait.

The U.S.-Japan Alliance: Beyond Northeast Asia

Fri, 08 May 2009 09:00:00 GMT

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May 08, 2009, 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM

A transformed alliance of the world’s two largest economies—Japan and the United States—could have far-reaching effects on issues such as trade, development, climate change and international security. On May 8, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies at Brookings and the Slavic Research Center at Hokkaido University hosted a forum to examine the U.S.-Japan alliance and its potential for addressing issues beyond the Northeast Asia region.

2009 Seoul-Washington Forum: The Future of U.S.-Republic of Korea Relations

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:00:00 GMT

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April 16, 2009, 9:00 AM to 11:45 AM

On April 16, leading experts from South Korea and the United States addressed the economic and military relationship between the two countries during the third annual Seoul-Washington Forum at the Brookings Institution. Brookings Senior Fellow Richard Bush, director of the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies, provided introductory remarks and moderated the discussion.

Democratization and the Transformation Process in East Asian Development States: Focus on Financial Reform in Korea and Taiwan

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this CNAPS Visiting Fellow working paper, Haeran Lim explores the effects of democratization on the transformation process of East Asian developmental states, focusing on financial reform in Korea and Taiwan after the Asian financial crisis of 1997-1998. Despite their similarities, Korea and Taiwan have taken different paths of reform, which resulted in different outcomes.

The Six-Party Process, Regional Security Mechanisms, and China-U.S. Cooperation

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Even though the six-party process focuses on Korean denuclearization, it has also served as a catalyst for the future of Asia-Pacific security cooperation. In this CNAPS Visiting Fellow Working Paper, Pang Zhongying writes that China and the U.S. should extend their positive cooperation on Korean denuclearization into the realm of regional security, and develop a mechanism that ensures peace, stability and prosperity.

Secretary Clinton's Asia Visit: It's Tokyo’s Turn to Respond

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Keiko Iizuka writes that by choosing Japan as her first official overseas visit, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has successfully sent a clear message that the Obama administration places a great deal of importance on its relationship with Japan. Iizuka believes it is now Tokyo's turn to respond as the world's number two economy and "the cornerstone" of U.S. policy in the Asia-Pacific.

Asia Still Likes America

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As Secretary of State Hillary Clinton tours East Asia this week she may find something surprising: respect for the United States remains strong. David Shambaugh and Thomas Wright explore the positive attitudes emanating from the region toward the U.S., and they note that this is an invaluable asset given the current need for cooperation regarding the global economic crisis.

Continuity and Change in Korea: Challenges for Regional Policy and U.S.-Russia Relations

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this CNAPS Visiting Fellow Working Paper, Georgy Toloraya writes that the United States and the other parties concerned must begin to consider three key issues as they seek to convince North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons program: the future of the North Korean state, the basis of its long-term security, and the shape of a new regional security order.

Turning Back the Clock: Attempts to Reclaim Control in North Korea after 2004

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 11, 2009, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

On February 11, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies at Brookings and the U.S.-Korea Institute at SAIS hosted Dr. Andrei Lankov for a presentation on the North Korean government’s attempt at reestablishing its control and reversing the changes that occurred in the decade after Kim Il Sung's death.

American Soft Power in Asia

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

CNAPS Director Richard Bush argues that American soft power in East Asia is diminished but not exhausted. Our postwar record, the goodwill of friends in the region and the special character of the 2008 presidential election create a basis on which to restore it. This is a strategic opportunity that should not be missed, says Bush.

Currency Conversion during Korean Unification

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As rumors about Kim Jong-il’s health focus attention on the future of the Korean peninsula, CNAPS Nonresident Fellow Yeongseop Rhee examines issues in South-North monetary integration, a vital aspect of unification. The success – or failure – of monetary integration will have major effects on the peninsular economy, the standard of living in the North, and the South’s appetite for unification.

Challenges in Alliance Management between Washington and Seoul

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Issues in its relationship with the United States often become domestic political problems for the South Korean government, to far a greater extent than for Washington. CNAPS Visiting Fellow Park Sun-won describes the various policy forces in Korea, explores their expectations of the U.S., and prescribes some steps for the two governments to maintain stability in the alliance.

Cross-Strait Relations and Implications for Northeast Asia: Views from the Region

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 04, 2008, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

On December 4, at the Institute of International Relations in Taipei, seven current and former CNAPS Visiting Fellows from around Northeast Asia presented regional views of the evolving relationship between Taiwan and China and identified implications of recent trends. The discussion was moderated by CNAPS Director Richard Bush.

Securing Japan

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 12, 2008, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM

For the past sixty years, most analysts have assumed that Japan's security policies would reinforce American interests in Asia. The political and military profile of Asia is changing rapidly, however. In this presentation, Dr. Richard Samuels argues that North Korea's renewed nuclear program, China's rise, and the relative decline of U.S. power have commanded strategic review in both Tokyo and Washington, and while Japan is becoming more muscular, it is also clinging to the alliance.

World in Crisis: Charting A Way Out

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 15:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 10, 2008, 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM

On November 10, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies at Brookings hosted Ambassador Ichiro Fujisaki of Japan for an address on the acute financial and environmental crises facing the world. Ambassador Fujisaki offered insights and approaches to these issues and outline where Japan and the world should be headed.

North Korea: Planning for After the Kims

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

There has been much speculation over the declining health of North Korean leader Kim Jong-il in recent weeks. Kongdan Oh writes that it is imperative to prepare for the eventual collapse of the Kim regime and that regime change in North Korea can open the way for an end to the Cold War on the Korean peninsula and build the foundation of a democratic and unified Korea that will influence the region.

U.S.- ROK: The Forgotten Alliance

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Though North Korea receives far more attention in the media, South Korea – a major trading partner and military ally – is far more important to the United States. As defense leaders from the United States and South Korea meet for the 40^th annual Security Consultative Meeting, Brookings Nonresident Senior Fellow Kongdan Oh writes that Washington and Seoul must recast their alliance.

Obama, McCain Camps Impact on Taiwan

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Liu Shih-Chung analyzes the similarities and differences between the Taiwan policies of John McCain and Barack Obama.

Keeping North Korea in Mind

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon writes that Korea has been the forgotten nuclear crisis, but the presidential candidates need to talk about—and show understanding of—the issues. O'Hanlon believes North Korea should be offered a roadmap to much improved economic and political relations if it gives up nuclear weapons and makes gradual reforms in its conventional military, its economy and its human rights behavior.

Recruitment, Training and Education in China’s 80-year-old Military

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 14:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

September 17, 2008, 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM

On September 17, chapter authors from The “People” in the PLA: Recruitment, Training, and Education in China’s 80-year Old Military, co-produced by the Strategic Studies Institute of the U.S. Army War College and The National Bureau of Asian Research, presented their findings, examining the human capital of China’s military at this event.

Taiwan: Tsai Works to Convince the U.S. of Democratic Progressive Party Change

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Shih-chung Liu discusses Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Chairwoman Tsai Ing-wen's recent visit to the United States. Liu believes that Tsai's visit shows that the DPP has found a new sense of responsibility toward relations with the U.S. and that her party is interested in rebuilding broken relations.

Fukuda's Resignation: A Pandora’s Box for the Japan-U.S. Alliance?

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda’s abrupt resignation on September 1 illustrated continuing instability in Japanese politics, and may help force his Liberal Democratic Party to lose control of the government. Keiko Iizuka writes that a new government could encourage debate and enact policies that will place severe strain on the Japan-U.S. alliance.

U.S. Policy in Asia: Meeting Opportunities and Challenges

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 28, 2008, 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM

On July 28, 2008, the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies hosted an event featuring remarks by Deputy Secretary of State John D. Negroponte on U.S. policy toward Asia and its evolution in light of the major political, economic, and security trends shaping the region.

Vietnam's Model for North Korea

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon believes North Korea's recent nuclear declaration is good news, but he also warns the U.S. must remain cautious about the outcome. O'Hanlon argues that if the U.S. and its allies focus on fostering reform in North Korea, through carrots of aid, trade, investment and diplomatic contact, all parties may avoid returning to a crisis of severe levels.

North Korea's Nuclear Declaration

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With North Korea now releasing information on its nuclear program and the Bush Administration stating that it will lift sanctions and remove North Korea from its list of terrorist states, Jeffrey Bader and Richard Bush offer their comments on both actions and offer recommendations for future U.S. policy. Bader and Bush say that North Korea will first need to allow on-the-ground verification at its nuclear sites.

Asian Regionalism, Strategic Evolution, and U.S. Policy in Asia

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Since the Asian financial crisis began in 1997, momentum toward regionalism in East Asia has increased and the process has become more Asia-centric. In this CNAPS Visiting Fellow Working Paper, Liu Fu-Kuo traces the development of the new East Asian regionalism, with a special look at the consequences of excluding Taiwan from multilateral institutions.

Perceptions of U.S. Foreign Policy in East Asia

Tue, 03 Jun 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 03, 2008, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

On June 3, the Brookings Institution hosted a discussion with the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies (CNAPS) visiting fellows who are completing their academic year at Brookings. They discussed their views of U.S. foreign policy and current relations between their countries and the U.S.

The Japanese State Identity as a Grand Strategic Imperative

Tue, 20 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Confronting a rising China, Japanese strategic thinkers are already changing their geo-strategic calculations, and will soon have to redefine the Japanese state identity, the basis of its geo-strategic choices. In this CNAPS Working Paper, 2006-2007 Visiting Fellow Masahiro Matsumura discusses the development of Japan’s state identity and examines its future strategic options.

How to Feed North Korea

Mon, 05 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hunger should know no politics, as President Ronald Reagan declared to justify food aid to Ethiopians starving under a brutal communist regime in the 1980s. Therefore South Korea's criticism of North Korea's human rights record need not prevent its providing food and fertilizer to hungry people in the North.

Il neonazionalismo della diaspora

Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove writes about China’s expanding clout in southeast and northeast Asia, its thickening ties with U.S. treaty allies, its emerging influence in resource-rich countries, its role in the new Asian institutions and its quickening interactions with the United Nations. (Italian)

Digital Democracy: How the American and Hong Kong Civil Societies Use New Media to Change Politics

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Democratic participation faces challenges in many modern societies, including the United States and Hong Kong. In this CNAPS Visiting Fellow working paper, Dr. Rikkie Yeung examines how the American and Hong Kong civil societies have explored the use of new media to promote democratic participation and change political realities.

Main Trends of Russia’s Foreign Policy in Transforming East and Southeast Asia

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As Russia’s global influence has risen in recent years, its policies toward East and Southeast Asia have become reanimated. In this Brookings Northeast Asia Commentary, Russian scholar Vladimir Kolotov outlines the evolving strategic landscape in East Asia, highlighting the crucial position occupied by Vietnam, and explores Russia’s priorities for the region under President-elect Dmitry Medvedev.

The Emerging Architecture for Security and Cooperation in Northeast Asia

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

James Goodby believe the outlook for the Korean Peninsula is far from bleak, but top-level leadership in all countries will be required if 2008 is to see significant progress toward a new system for peace and security in Northeast Asia.

Advancing Sino-U.S. Energy Cooperation Amid Oil Price Hikes

Sat, 01 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

China and the United States share the challenges of sustaining economic growth and affordable energy, but their joint efforts have achieved little beyond understanding each other’s positions on various energy issues. CNAPS Visiting Fellow Richard Weixing Hu argues that dialogues should include more substantive discussion on energy cooperation by addressing strategic anxieties, energy efficiency and the price of oil.

Inauguration of Lee Myung-bak: Grappling with Korea’s Future Challenges

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

On February 25, Lee Myung-bak will be inaugurated as the tenth president of the Republic of Korea. President Lee will have to reach across party and social lines to manage challenges in the economy, relations with the United States and other foreign powers, inter-Korean engagement, and—not least—South Korea’s uncertain political environment.

A Mechanism to Stabilize U.S.-China-Japan Trilateral Relations in Asia

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Relations between China, Japan and the United States serve as the foundation for peace and stability in East Asia, but can also create strategic conflict within the region. In this CNAPS Visiting Fellow Working Paper, Chu Shulong examines the background and history of relations among these three strategic powers, and what this means for the future of Asia.

The U.S.-Japan Alliance and Electoral Politics

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

At the start of 2008, most Americans are transfixed by the least predictable primary season for the U.S. presidency in memory. Japan too is likely to hold an election in 2008, and it will almost certainly be shaped by and in turn affect security issues, including the important U.S.-Japan alliance.

Looking Back and Looking Forward: North Korea, Northeast Asia and the ROK-U.S. Alliance

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Following a period of rocky relations caused by both ideological and structural factors, the U.S.-South Korea relationship began recovering in early 2007. In this CNAPS Visiting Fellow Working Paper, Hyeong Jung Park analyzes the recent history of the relationship and offers comprehensive suggestions for how the two sides can transform both their alliance and the strategic shape of Northeast Asia.

U.S.-Taiwan Relations: What’s the Problem?

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Richard Bush discusses reasons for the failing relationship between the U.S. and Taiwan.

China and Northeast Asia: Views from the Region

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 29, 2007, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

In late November of 2007, scholars and students of Northeast Asia gathered at Tsinghua University for a seminar sponsored by the Brookings-Tsinghua Center and the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies. CNAPS Visiting Fellow alumni from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Russia, South Korea and Taiwan presented their views on China’s relations with the region and regional perceptions of China at this public event.

An Emerging East Asia and the Next American Administration

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 28, 2007, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

CNAPS and the Center for International and Strategic Studies sponsored this day-long conference at Peking University, bringing together Brookings and CNAPS scholars and leading Chinese experts to discuss emerging structures of international relations, Asia’s economic dynamism, and the foreign policy and security challenges that will face the next American president.

An Approach to Managing North Korea

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Lee Sanghee offers new approaches to dealing with North Korea.

The Asian Path Toward Helping Burma

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

With the leaders of the 10 ASEAN countries gathering in Singapore for their summit meeting, Brookings expert Lex Rieffel and David Steinberg of Georgetown University, argue that the U.S. government’s agenda on Burma would be better served by letting its Asian partners lead on the critical issues.

Taiwan's Democracy: A Historical Review

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 12:00:00 GMT

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November 07, 2007, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

In this speech launching a series of seminars on Taiwan’s presidential and legislative elections, Dr. Joseph Wu, Representative at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States, praised Taiwan’s peaceful democratic development, but identified some weaknesses in the system and suggested means for improvement.

Realities and Possibilites for a Peace System in Northeast Asia

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

General Sanghee Lee examines the current state of Northeast Asia, including key players and their strategic interests as well as possible conflict resolution strategies for the region.

Cross Currents: Regionalism and Nationalism in Northeast Asia

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:00:00 GMT

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October 31, 2007, 3:00 PM to 05:00 PM

The key economies of Asia are growing increasingly interdependent with each other and with the United States, and the movement toward regionalism is gaining momentum. Nationalism flourishes in spite of – and sometimes because of – interdependence. In this public seminar hosted by Stanford University’s Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center (APARC) and CNAPS, leading experts discussed the regionalism and nationalism prevalent throughout Northeast Asia.

Human Rights and the North Korea Refugee Crisis

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The particular situation of North Korea, including its isolation from the rest of the world coupled with a near absence of human rights and a proclivity toward developing nuclear weapons pose challenges for policy makers, especially those addressing the North Korean refugee crisis.

China's Soft Power

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 12:00:00 GMT

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October 23, 2007, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

One aspect of the rise of China has been an increase in its soft power in regional and global affairs. In this CNAPS presentation, Dr. Pang discussed China’s soft power from a Chinese perspective: he examined issues including China’s soft resources and their possible conversion into power; the role of China’s development model in building the nation’s appeal to others; China’s approaches to wielding its soft power; and the challenges and dilemmas created by building this soft power.

Refugee Issues Relating to China

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

China's behavior in the human rights and refugee spheres over the past decades has moved forward in some positive ways, but its actions are still quite unrestrained by international norms.

Denuclearizing North Korea: The Imminent Challenges of Economic and Energy Assistance

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 10:30:00 GMT

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October 12, 2007, 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM

The North Korean government sees economic aid—probably amounting to billions of dollars—as the price tag for giving up its nuclear programs and nuclear weapons. In this presentation, CNAPS Visiting Fellow Georgy Toloraya explains the complexities behind the imminent and perhaps underappreciated challenge of economic assistance to North Korea.

Mongolia Matters

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Mongolia has emerged as a vibrant—though complicated—democracy which now appears worthy of international attention, investment, and support. Mongolian President N. Enkhbayar’s recent American visit calls attention to the growing closeness in US..-Mongolian relations. Mongolia’s peacekeeping support in Iraq is an important example of this improving relationship.

The Four Faces of Taiwan Democracy

Sat, 15 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Carlos Pascual and Richard Bush argue that China should not fear Taiwan’s democracy saying “Chinese moderation can produce the positive outcome it most desires from Taiwan's democracy: that the Center prevails and holds.”

A Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific: An Idea with Merit, but Is It Feasible?

Sat, 01 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

With the outcome of the Doha trade talks uncertain, Myron Brilliant of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce argues that America should seek an "insurance policy" by proposing an Asia-Pacific Free Trade Area. He also urges the United States to take other steps to expand trade with the region.

Changes in Perceptions of the ROK-US Alliance and the Way Ahead to Achieve Common Interests

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 11, 2007 at 12:00 AM

China: Let a Thousand Democracies Bloom

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by David Shambaugh, International Herald Tribune (7/6/07)

Perceptions of U.S. Foreign Policy in East Asia

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 28, 2007, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

On June 28, Brookings hosted a discussion with the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies (CNAPS) visiting fellows who are completing their academic year at Brookings. They discussed their views of U.S. foreign policy and current relations between their countries and the U.S.

Perceptions of U.S. Foreign Policy in East Asia

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 28, 2007, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

Decent Asia Policy, Needs Work

Tue, 29 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by David Shambaugh, International Herald Tribune (5/29/07)

Innovation with Chinese Characteristics

Thu, 03 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 03, 2007 at 12:00 AM

Hidden in Plain View: A China Strategy for Taipei

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Masahiro Matsumura argues that “Taiwan should continue to build a mature democracy that serves as an example for other countries and China itself, and stress the legal orthodoxy of the Republic of China.”

Election Fever: A Major Event in Hong Kong's Political Evolution

Sun, 01 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In March, Hong Kong caught election fever. Newspapers reported day after day on the campaign for Chief Executive, in which the two contenders were the incumbent, Donald Tsang, and his challenger, legislator Alan Leong, a prominent lawyer and former chairman of the Hong Kong Bar Association. Millions of people watched the two men debating on television - twice - the first such debates in Hong Kong history.

Rising Star: China's New Security Diplomacy

Thu, 15 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 15, 2007 at 12:00 AM

How to Deal with South Korea

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Article by Wonhyuk Lim and Sunhyuk Kim, Washington Quarterly (Spring 2007)

Can China Contain Unrest? Six Questions Seeking One Answer

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

From the time protests in China began attracting our attention in the late 1990s, foreign observers have wondered how great a challenge they could constitute to the regime, and how effectively the regime would cope. Do the protests represent yet another temporary cycle of popular political activism that will fade? Or will they continue, but merely as a chronic nuisance to Beijing? Or do they represent a fundamental and more or less permanent shift to a more combative political culture in China that could emerge as a major threat to the stability of the regime?

Don't Expect Miracles in North Korea Deal

Tue, 20 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by James E. Goodby and Markku Heiskanen, OhmyNews (2/20/07)

Current Russia-North Korea Relations: Challenges and Achievements

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Policy toward North Korea is an important component of Russia's general strategy toward the Asia-Pacific region, which is now regarded by Moscow as a crucially important area. This growing emphasis on Asia is evidenced by President Vladimir Putin's increased participation in APEC summits including the November 2005 meeting in Pusan, South Korea, and Russia's development of a dialogue partnership with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). During the first Russia-ASEAN summit, held in Malaysia just before the East Asian Summit in December 2005, President Putin gave a speech to the participants of the nascent East Asian Community (EAC), a new multidimensional integration association in the region.

The East Asia Summit: Looking for an Identity

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The second annual East Asia Summit (EAS) concluded on January 15, 2007. In this Commentary, CNAPS Visiting Fellow Chu Shulong identifies the forum's strong points and the challenges it must overcome in order to become a productive multilateral organization.

Taiwan's Security: History and Prospects

Thu, 18 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

January 18, 2007 at 12:00 AM

Abe Foreign Policy: A Good Start but Challenges Ahead

Mon, 01 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Article by Richard Bush, Japan Economic Currents (Winter 2007)

North Korea's Options in 2007

Mon, 01 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Last October, North Korea detonated a nuclear device despite strong opposition from all neighboring countries and the United States. Pessimists concluded that North Korea would not give up the nuclear weapons it already possesses any time soon, if ever. Even optimists agreed that finding the right package of incentives to induce Pyongyang to disarm and dismantle its nuclear programs had just gotten more difficult.

The Democratic Victory in Congress: Implications for Asia

Fri, 01 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The implications of the Democratic victory in the November 7 congressional election for U.S. policy in Asia seem serious. Economic issues with China, negotiating approaches toward North Korea, as well as human rights and environmental initiatives, add to anticipated complications in U.S. relations with Asia. However, factors of power, priorities, politics, and personalities dilute the push for substantial change in U.S. policy in Asia.

Democratic Gridlock on Taiwan: Domestic Sources and External Implications

Thu, 30 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Speech by Richard C. Bush III, Stanford University (11/30/06)

Fusing a Perspective on Historical Development into Strategic Studies: The Case of Northeast Asia

Sat, 18 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Paper prepared by Masahiro Matsumura for the National Bureau of Asian Research Kenneth B. and Anne H.H. Pyle Center for Northeast Asian Studies Inaugural Conference (November 17-18, 2006)

Post-2003 Hong Kong: The Rise of Civil Society vs. Decline of Autonomy?

Wed, 15 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 15, 2006 at 12:00 AM

Prudence and Realism in Japan's Nuclear Options

Fri, 10 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Masahiro Matsumura, The Brookings Institution (11/10/06)

Is Asia Ready for a Bigger Role?

Fri, 03 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Ann Florini, The Straits Times (11/3/06)

North Korea after the Nuclear Test

Thu, 02 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 02, 2006 at 12:00 AM

Old Enemies Become Friends: U.S. and Vietnam

Wed, 01 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

For two governments that fought each other in a long, bitter war, the steady improvement in U.S.-Vietnam relations in recent years has been a remarkable development. At a time when America's relations with some old friends are strained, our friendly ties with this old enemy must seem surprising to many people.

Japan's Diplomacy under the New Abe Cabinet

Fri, 27 Oct 2006 11:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 27, 2006, 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM

How Likely Is Second North Korea Nuke Test?

Thu, 19 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Interview with Michael E. O'Hanlon, FOX News (10/19/06)

South Korea's Strategic Thinking toward China: From Park Chung Hee to Roh Moo Hyun

Wed, 18 Oct 2006 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 18, 2006, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

The Regional Dynamics of Japan's History Debate: Epiphenomena, Substance, and Prospects

Fri, 13 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 13, 2006 at 12:00 AM

A Push against Pyongyang

Thu, 12 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Michael E. O'Hanlon, The Washington Times (10/12/06)

Pyongyang: Reform or Abyss

Wed, 11 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Michael E. O'Hanlon, Financial Times (10/11/06)

With the Grain or Against the Grain? Energy Security and Chinese Foreign Policy in the Hu Jintao Era

Sun, 01 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

CNAPS Visiting Fellow Working Paper by Dr. James Tang

Japan After Koizumi: The Abe Opportunity

Sun, 01 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi could not have picked a better time to step aside. He was so successful in last year's election that his party has nowhere to go but down. Moreover, Koizumi's strategy involved attacking the party's political machine, one foundation of its long-term rule. Hence the victory may actually leave the LDP more vulnerable to a future loss of power.

North Korea: 2007 and Beyond

Thu, 14 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

September 14, 2006 at 12:00 AM