The Chey Institute for Advanced Studies hosted an academic forum to examine the shifting dynamics of the global maritime order and their implications for Korea’s national strategy. The forum was convened against the backdrop of mounting structural changes in the international system, where the global economy—long sustained by maritime security and an open international order provided by the United States—is facing growing strain from intensifying U.S.–China strategic competition, protracted conflicts in the Middle East, rising geopolitical uncertainties surrounding key sea lines of communication, and the resurgence of protectionism.

Bringing together leading experts in foreign policy, maritime security, and economic strategy, the forum highlighted the particular vulnerability of the Republic of Korea, whose export-driven economy and heavy reliance on imported energy and raw materials make the stability of the global maritime order a critical determinant of its economic security, industrial competitiveness, and national defense. Participants shared a common recognition of the need for a strategic response to the evolving provision of global public goods.

Discussions focused on assessing the impact of changing maritime dynamics on sea lanes and national security, while exploring how Korea can secure a greater degree of strategic autonomy in a shifting order. The forum also examined new models of cooperation among government, industry, and the military, offering policy-relevant recommendations on how Korea can prepare for and adapt to an increasingly uncertain maritime and geopolitical environment.