Foreign Policy of the Republic of Korea: From Value-Based Diplomacy to Pragmatic Diplomacy

The article analyzes the general direction of the Republic of Korea’s foreign policy from 2022 to the present, during the administrations of President Yoon Suk Yeol (2022–2025) and President Lee Jae Myung (2025–present). The article examines President Yoon’s value-based diplomacy in comparison to the pragmatic diplomacy rooted in national interests under President Lee. The value-based diplomacy developed within the context of a pro-American foreign-policy course, often at the expense of relations with Russia and China. The new pragmatic diplomacy under Lee Jae-Myung, in addition to supporting the Korea-U.S. alliance, aims to restore economic ties with China and maintain stable relations with Russia and Japan.