US-Japan-Korea alliance- Security and future geopolitical implications

US-Japan-Korea alliance- Security and future geopolitical implications   During the cold war era, two unequal powers in the Northeast Asian region merged with each other and formed a bilateral defensive alliance. These powers are Japan and South Korea. Thereafter, the U.S-Japan alliance has been formed which is characterized by its loose structure and unwillingness of Japan to maintain a long-term commitment. Following that, the alliance of South Korea and U.S has been formed to tackle North Korea’s aggression. The renowned trilateral cooperation between Japan, South Korea and the U.S is to strengthen the defense structure of all the three nations. The security alliance has been a cornerstone for the U.S; however, challenges also comes with this alliance. U.S and Japan became allies because the U.S wanted to expand its strategic presence within the East Asian region. Moreover, the U.S-Japan agreement, 1960, grants the U.S to establish its military rights over Japan. Japan, in turn, would be benefitted because the U.S has committed to protecting the archipelago from attacks. Similarly, the U.S-Korea alliance has security implications as well. The strong alliance has started during the Cold War era and has transformed the security environment. South Korea developed its security policy in order to maintain a strong relationship with the U.S. Thereafter, the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement has been signed that has major economic benefits for both the nations. On the other hand, a tit-for-tat sentiment is prevalent between Korea and Japan due to numerous issues. The Imperial Japanese government ruled Korea and exerted control forcefully before World War II. The Korean government has, therefore gone on a trade war with Japan. This has led to severe implications on the global economy and national security.