Revisiting Triangular Cooperation: Japan and South Korea’s Prospects for Balanced Engagements with the Global South

Abstract

Given the dynamic changes in the global landscape, including the intensifying Sino-Indian competition and the subsequent UN vote turnouts on global conflicts, East Asian countries have broadened their focus on reassessing their engagement with the Global South. Japan and South Korea, two pivotal OECD DAC donors, have each articulated renewed strategies for partnering with the Global South that appear to be distinct from the initial version of South-South Cooperation (SSC) that began in the 1950s. Japan has adopted a whole-of-government approach via its Policy on Strengthening New Cooperation with the Global South, emphasizing co-creation and stronger private-sector engagement. Meanwhile, South Korea references the Global South mainly through its Global Pivotal State framework, focusing on selective partnerships in specific sectors. Against this backdrop, this study develops a Balanced Triangular Cooperation (TrC) framework that highlights material, strategic, and symbolic gains for facilitator, pivot, and beneficiary states alike. By comparing Japan’s systematic engagement with South Korea’s selective move, the analysis explores whether these initiatives enhance horizontal partnerships with the Global South or reinforce existing hierarchies. Findings indicate that Japan’s institutionalized approach offers a broader negotiation platform for the Global South, yet also prioritizes Japan’s economic security. In contrast, Korea’s flexible, project-based model emphasizes inclusivity rhetorically, but may limit beneficiary input. Building on previous research that questions TrC’s transformative role from the Global South’s perspective, this study underscores the importance of beneficiary-led processes, sustained multi-stakeholder engagement, and value co-creation in fostering equitable SSC and TrC. It highlights the complexities of achieving balance in TrC within development cooperation.