Signal Survey of 264 Korean experts expects a prolonged rivalry and less dependence on both powers

Summary

To test its findings, the research team surveyed 264 domestic experts in politics and diplomacy, economics, trade and economic security, and area studies, along with government and related-agency staff, from 2 to 27 October 2025. The results were analysed in six areas: perceptions of the rivalry, risks to Korea-China economic cooperation, Korea's strategic choices, adjustment of economic dependence on the two hubs, repositioning toward emerging connecting countries and regional cooperation tasks. Respondents expected the US-China strategic competition to be prolonged. They identified reducing excessive dependence on both the US and China and securing strategic flexibility as very important tasks. The survey results were used as an input to the report's strategy recommendations.