Looking Beyond the Region: Changing Security Dynamics in East Asia and China’s Response

• In Event: Shifting Security Dynamics in East Asia: Charting a Path toward Regional Stability

Abstract

How has China perceived and reacted to the recent evolution of security dynamics in East Asia? Provoked mainly by the U.S. rebalancing strategy and the subsequent readjustment of the US-led alliance network, China has been compelled to re-assess the regional security landscape and the implications for its security policy. This article argues that China’s initial response has been to “rebalance” policy resources to regions beyond East Asia to circumvent the pressing conflicts and search for a realignment of security relations. Drawing on extensive interviews with Chinese security analysts, we seek to give a comprehensive re-examination of Chinese security relationship with other regional actors as well as the strategic calculus behind recent new initiatives.

Author

• Lim Jaehwan, Aoyama Gakuin University