The Shift in Sport Discourse during the Trump Era and Policy Challenges for South Korean Sport

Objectives This study explores how the Trump administration politicized sport as a tool for domestic nationalism and international diplomacy, and examines its impact on South Korea’s middle-power sports diplomacy. Methods Using case study analysis, the research investigates key events—NFL protests, the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, NBA-China tensions, and athlete activism. These are interpreted through soft power, cultural diplomacy, and sports nationalism frameworks. Results The study finds that the Trump administration utilized sport as a domestic political tool, reinforcing nationalist sentiment and framing athlete activism as unpatriotic. This politicized approach reflected a shift away from soft power diplomacy toward confrontational symbolism. In contrast, middle powers like South Korea have approached sports diplomacy as a means of fostering dialogue, promoting international norms, and enhancing global cooperation, highlighting a strategic divergence in the use of sport in foreign policy. Conclusions The politicization of sport under Trump presents both challenges and opportunities for South Korea. To respond, Korea must strengthen sports diplomacy rooted in neutrality, human rights, and multilateral cooperation, especially amid a shifting global order.