Revisiting Carter’s Policy on Korea : Troop Withdrawal, National Security, and Human Rights

초록

Adopting a broader perspective beyond narrow U.S. national interests and Cold War dichotomy, this study shows Carter’s foreign policy as a pragmatic response to international shifts. Recognizing the inefficacy of traditional diplomacy, Carter sought innovative solutions for U.S. foreign relations challenges. From a Cold War standpoint, these policies appeared naive and risky, causing confusion and resistance in the U.S. and South Korea, and were often seen as harmful to U.S. national security. However, in the 1970s’ shifting international order, these approaches were realistic. Carter’s true strength was his flexibility. Aware of the U.S.’s declining global status and changing international dynamics, Carter developed and tested various diplomatic strategies. He implemented his policies decisively but was willing to adjust or discard ineffective ones. His varied policy approach broadened U.S. foreign policy options, giving the U.S. more leverage in international relations. Additionally, his policies indirectly contributed to South Korea’s long-term democratization and laid the foundation for stronger U.S.-South Korean relations.

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