US Success in Japan and South Korea

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  • Created by: TessAni
  • Created on: 17-01-13 13:35

US Success in Japan and South Korea

Similarities

  • Unlike with Vietnam comprises were able to be made - the Emperor in Japan and war strategy in Korea
  • The American public took little notice of US policy in either country, unlike Vietnam which was famously public
  • The international community was supportive of US action in both - Korean War was a UN venture technically and Truman even sacked MacArthur, in part, on the advice of Clement Atlee.
  • Neither country tied down many troops - again unlike Vietnam

Differences

  • The Japanese played a much more significant role in the reform and reconstruction of their country. A truly democratic government was established, unlike that of South Korea
  • The USA built upon existing Japanese institutions and expertise to build up a prosperous economy, whereas Rhee's government was corrupt and refused democracy - creating strong support for communism
  • Korea was of little interest to the USA and policy was half hearted - like in China until 1950. In contrast, Japan was the heart of the defensive perimeter strategy.

Overall comparison

Although there are quite a few similarities - perhaps the media is one of the strongest, as well as international support - Japan remains a very different situation to Korea. The USA pushed reform and development in Japan, really building trade relations, as opposed to fighting against opposition. 

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