ADRN

In 2005, the East Asia Institute (EAI) initiated the Korean Identity public opinion survey aimed at identifying South Koreans’ shifting values and identities. Since then, the survey has been conducted once every five years to analyze long-term trends of how South Korean people perceive themselves and others. The fourth Korean Identity survey, conducted from May 6 to 27, 2020, covers South Korean views of history, social participation, social conflicts and foreign affairs. This issue briefing series provides a first-hand analysis of the results on the South Korean perception of foreign affairs, which display rising South Korean hostility toward surrounding nations, narrowing sense of national identity, and continued support for the U.S. role on the Korean Peninsula and the wider region. The first issue briefing deals with views on outbound and inbound globalization and threats to national interest. The second issue briefing, "South Korean Perception of North Korea and Unification: The Future of the Korean Peninsula, Neighbor rather than Brother," reviews South Koreans' perception of North Korea and their attitude toward unification of the Korean Peninsula. The third issue briefing, "South Korean Perception of the United States and China: United States, a More Favorable Partner than China" analyzes the level of support for the ROK-U.S. alliance and addresses the difference in South Korea’s level of affinity toward the United States and China. The fourth issue briefing, "South Korea’s Hostile View toward Japan amid Aggravating Bilateral Relations" addresses the growing linkage between historical and security issues in dealing with bilateral relations between South Korea and Japan.