Capturing ASEAN Amid US-China Competition... Strengthening Cooperation in AI, Energy, and Maritime Safety

South Korea and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have agreed to bolster cooperation in key areas including artificial intelligence (AI), energy, and maritime safety. This move comes as both the United States and China intensify efforts to expand their influence within the ASEAN bloc, positioning South Korea to leverage its strengths as a middle power.

During the 29th ASEAN-ROK Ministerial Meeting in Manila, Philippines, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun presented concrete proposals for cooperation. These included cultural exchanges driven by South Korea's soft power and K-industry advancements, alongside future technology collaboration in AI, the digital economy, and nuclear energy. Discussions also covered maritime safety, combating transnational crime, and cybersecurity.

A significant initiative highlighted was the "Korea-ASEAN AI Together Initiative." This program aims to build an AI ecosystem, foster research, and cultivate talent, capitalizing on South Korea's comprehensive AI development capabilities. Recognizing the energy security concerns exacerbated by Middle East conflicts, South Korea also pledged cooperation in expanding power grids and ensuring energy security through avenues like nuclear power.

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Most ASEAN countries mentioned energy security issues in the context of the Middle East situation and US-China competition, and felt a sense of crisis that ASEAN could be left behind if it doesn't catch up with the AI development trend.

An official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that many ASEAN nations expressed concerns about energy security and felt a sense of urgency regarding AI development, fearing they might be left behind. The official added that there was a palpable expectation for South Korea's contribution, leading to highly practical discussions. For ASEAN, deepening ties with South Korea offers a potential alternative to being forced to choose sides between the US and China, a situation that could arise if economic and security cooperation becomes increasingly polarized.

While ASEAN countries receive support from China and the US for infrastructure and AI, they are wary of becoming dependent or being pressured into alignment. South Korea's approach is seen as a way to enhance ASEAN's self-reliance through joint efforts. Furthermore, South Korea and ASEAN will collaborate on maritime safety, establishing an academy for law enforcement, search and rescue, and pollution control, a critical issue for ASEAN nations navigating territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

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ASEAN may feel they have to make a choice (between the US and China) at some point, but their perception of South Korea is different. They expect that they can strengthen ASEAN's own capabilities through joint cooperation with Korea.