Soft Power : The factors of the Republic of Korea’s development

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the determinants that influenced the Republic of Korea's adoption of a soft power policy as a crucial strategy for national progress. In anticipation of challenges in economic development, the South Korean government incorporated the soft power approach as a fundamental component of the country's growth since the 1990s. This strategic shift empowered South Korea to transition from adversity to triumph, establishing itself as a global leader in cultural exports.

The study identified several factors motivating the South Korean government to implement soft power for economic development. The primary factor was the impact of the Asian Financial Crisis in 1997, prompting the government to utilize soft power to construct a new national image. The second factor encompassed geographical limitations and diplomatic considerations. The third factor involved leveraging soft power to globally promote products and consumption values. The fourth factor was the influence of successful entertainment industry models from the United States and Japan. Finally, population constraints constituted the fifth factor, compelling South Korea to adopt soft power as a developmental strategy.

The convergence of these factors led the South Korean government to embrace soft power as a comprehensive approach to national development, propelling the country from economic challenges to global success in cultural exports.