A Comparative Study on Chinese, Japanese and South Korean Development Aid Strategies
Yeremia Nicolaus Widjanarko and Miguel Angel Esquivias

Faculty of Economics & Business, Universitas Airlangga

Abstract

This research paper examines the development aid strategies of China, Japan and South Korea, focusing on how their differences affect the international system. The significance of this study lies in understanding the evolving dynamics of international development assistance, particularly as these three nations transition from aid recipients to influential donors. The central research focus guiding this paper is how differences between Chinese, Japanese and South Korean development aid strategies affect the international system. To address this focus, this research employs Neorealism as its theoretical framework, which posits that states operate in an anarchic international system where power dynamics and national interests shape their actions. Utilizing a qualitative multiple case methodology, the research synthesizes existing literature, official documents and case studies to explore the distinct approaches of those three nations in development aid. Key findings reveal that China^s infrastructure-based aid strategy enhances its geopolitical influence, Japan^s emphasis on human security and sustainability positions it as a stabilizing force and South Korea^s tailored cooperation fosters regional partnerships. These differences not only reflect each country^s historical context and national interests but also contribute to a more complex and multipolar international system of development aid. The implications of these findings underscore the importance of understanding the interplay between development assistance and global power dynamics, highlighting the need for further research into the perspectives of recipient countries.

Keywords: China, Develpment Aid, Japan, Neorealism, South Korea.

Topic: International economics