The Indo-Pacific region has undoubtedly emerged as the strategic epicenter of the 21st century. As the primary conduit for global maritime trade, this region is directly linked to over 60% of the world’s economy. Accordingly, the maritime order in the Indo-Pacific has become a critical issue directly tied to global security and prosperity.

Against this backdrop, both South Korea and the United States have formulated their respective Indo-Pacific strategies, seeking to promote regional stability, peace, and sustainable prosperity. However, in recent years, the Indo-Pacific maritime order has faced serious challenges, including intensifying territorial disputes and heightened military tensions in the Taiwan Strait. These dynamics have undermined trust among regional actors, increased strategic unpredictability, and posed long-term threats to sustainable peace.

This session aims to explore the strategic significance of the Indo-Pacific maritime order, examine the roles of South Korea and the United States in safeguarding and strengthening it, and discuss potential directions for bilateral cooperation within the framework of the ROK-U.S. alliance. It will also consider opportunities for solidarity with like-minded partners to reinforce a rules-based maritime order in the region.