ABSTRACT
The dominant factor shaping the evolution of the two Koreas has been the global confrontation between the superpowers. Big power relationships in East Asia have changed dramatically since the 1950s. Trends in big power relationships in East Asia have benefited the United States and, secondarily, South Korea, rather than the Soviet Union and North Korea. Most important was the Sino-Soviet split, which turned the Soviet Union and China from allies into adversaries. It also paved the way for the normalization of relations between the United States and China. The United States and Japan have common interests in the security, stability, and economic development of South Korea. Although they are to some extent competitors in trade and investment there, their policies in support of South Korea coincide closely. Trends in relations between the United States and China and Japan and China have also strengthened the US position and have redounded to the benefit of South Korea.
