Synopses & Reviews
The 'quasi-alliance' between Japan, the Republic of Korea and the US explains relations between them.
Synopsis
The relationship between Japan and the Republic of Korea has fluctuated markedly, being persistently marred by friction. Cha compares the commonly accepted explanation for this relationship - historical enmity - with one that focuses on policies of the United States. He finds that cooperation and dissension in the relationship are best understood through what he calls a 'quasi-alliance' model: two unallied states which have a third party as a common ally. The book draws on recently declassified US documents, Korean internal government documents, and interviews with former policymakers.
Synopsis
The relationship between Japan and the Republic of Korea, although crucial to peace and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific, has been a stormy one at times. Cha argues that it can best be understood with reference to the relationship of both with the United States, creating a 'quasi-alliance'.
Table of Contents
A note to the reader; Abbreviations; Introduction: the puzzle and its importance; 1. The enigma of history; 2. The argument: quasi alliances; 3. Cooperation under the nixon doctrine, 1969-1971; 4. Detente and the heightening crisis, 1972-1974; 5. Vietnam and the Carter years, 1975-1979; 6. The 1980s: evolution and friction during the Reagan years; Conclusion: quasi allies or adversaries in the Post-Cold war era?; Appendix tables; Notes; Index.