Bulwark Takes Trump Did the Impossible! Trade War Makes Japan and Korea Cozy up to China
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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.
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Shifting Alliances
- Trump's "America First" tariff policies are pushing allies like Japan and South Korea closer to China.
- This shift in economic ties could have major geopolitical implications.
Trilateral Talks
- Japan and South Korea held their first economic dialogue with China in five years.
- The meeting aimed to facilitate regional trade amidst U.S. tariff concerns.
Hedging Bets
- Japan and South Korea are hedging their bets by engaging with China economically.
- This is a response to the U.S. moving away from free trade agreements.