President Yoon Suk-yeol’s diplomatic strategy aims to establish South Korea as a “Global Pivotal State (GPS),” but this approach raises concerns about the country’s ability to maintain focus and deliver on its long-term commitments, especially considering the potential for inconsistency due to domestic political changes.

Since assuming office in 2022, Yoon has sought to position South Korea as a defender of liberal democracy, human rights and the rule of law. This contrasts with the previous Moon Jae-in administration, which prioritized improving relations with North Korea at the expense of pursuing a more global focus beyond the Korean Peninsula.