Diplomacy Journal Kim Tae Yeon | The concept introduced by international relations scholar Joseph Nye has become one of the defining frameworks for understanding South Korea's rising global standing. Just as the end of the Cold War was shaped not by military force alone but by the spread of values, culture, and information, South Korea in the 21st century is building a new form of national influence — one grounded in culture, technology, and industrial competitiveness. "Soft power is the ability to get what you want through attraction rather than coercion or payment," In 2026, South Korea is n
Diplomacy Journal Kim Tae Yeon | On the evening of June 23, President Lee Jae-myung hosted a dinner at Cheong Wa Dae’s Nokjiwon (Green Garden at the Office of the President), inviting diplomatic envoys from various countries of the world and representatives of international organizations stationed in Korea. This marks the first time in approximately one year, since the Liberation Day last year, that President Lee has invited the entire diplomatic corps to a dinner. It also marks the first time in seven years, since 2019, that an event for the diplomatic corps has been held at Cheong Wa Dae’s N