Restructuring of the International Trade Order in the Era of U.S.–China Strategic Competition and the Future Direction of Korea–Japan Economic Cooperation

This study analyzed the transformation of Korea–Japan economic cooperation under the structural reconfiguration of the international trade order. From an asymmetric division of labor centered on Japan, the relationship shifted with Japan's 2019 export restrictions, which revealed industrial vulnerabilities and the risks of supply chain dependence. Since then, in key sectors such as semiconductors, batteries, and digital trade, horizontal competition has coexisted with mutual complementarity, while U.S.–China rivalry and supply chain realignment have reshaped the foundations of cooperation. The findings highlight the need to move beyond short–term industrial interests and align mid– to long–term strategic objectives. Institutionalizing a strategic complementary partnership across supply chains, technology, digital governance, climate, and finance would enhance resilience and autonomy, while positioning both countries as proactive actors in Indo–Pacific economic security governance and the reshaping of global trade norms.