Bulwark Takes
Trump Did the Impossible! Trade War Makes Japan and Korea Cozy up to China
Mar 31, 2025
Michael Mazza, an expert on China at the Project 2049 Institute, dives into how Donald Trump's 'America First' tariffs are altering the landscape of international relations. He explores how Japan and South Korea are reevaluating their economic ties, potentially leaning closer to China. The conversation touches on increasing trilateral cooperation amid shifting U.S. influence and the geopolitical tensions that arise from these dynamics. Mazza also underscores how social media is reshaping diplomatic relationships in East Asia.
15:50
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Trump's tariff policies are prompting Japan and South Korea to reevaluate their economic strategies, potentially aligning more with China.
- The economic dialogue among Japan, South Korea, and China signals a shift towards safeguarding their interests amid U.S. trade tensions.
Deep dives
Impact of U.S. Tariffs on Regional Alliances
The response of Japan and South Korea to U.S. tariffs highlights the shifting dynamics of international trade alliances. Recently, China claimed that these countries agreed to collectively respond to U.S. tariffs, although this assertion appears overstated. Observers note that the recent economic dialogue among the three nations primarily focused on enhancing trade and economic cooperation, rather than targeting the United States. This suggests that while there may be a form of collaboration, the primary goal of Japan and South Korea might be to safeguard their own economic interests amid rising tensions with the U.S.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
