Harnessing Climate Diplomacy for Power: A Comparative Study of China and South Korea

Abstract

This article explores how states strategically use climate diplomacy to enhance their influence, specifically focusing on a comparative analysis of China and South Korea. Using China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and South Korea’s Green New Deal (GND) as core case studies, it is analyzed how states with different political systems and power statuses integrate environmental policies into their foreign affairs and policies. Applying neo-classical realism to China and Constructivism to South Korea the findings show that climate diplomacy of China’ is state-led diplomacy that is oriented toward economic expansion and geopolitical leverage. On the other hand, South Korea promotes norm based, identity driven diplomacy that is rooted in transparency, innovation, and international cooperation. While both nations use climate diplomacy to enhance soft power, their strategies, instruments, and international receptions show significant divergences. The article contributes to a deeper understanding of how climate diplomacy is shaped by domestic governance and ideological frameworks. It also aligns with the SDG 7 (clean energy), SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), SDG 9 (innovation of industries and infrastructures), SDG 11 (sustainable and resilient cities), SDG 13 (climate action), SDG 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions), and SDG 17 (partnership for goals), highlighting the relevance of climate initiatives to global partnerships and sustainable development.

Keywords: Climate Diplomacy, Green Diplomacy, Middle Power Diplomacy, Global Environmental Politics, Belt and Road Initiative, Green New Deal, China, South Korea, Neo-classical Realism, Constructivism