Emerging Leaders in East Asia: The Next Generation of Political Leadership in China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan

Major powers in East Asia are undergoing important political leadership transitions. In China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, a new generation is emerging, equipped with unique experiences and backgrounds. Exploring how these future leaders are likely to respond to regional trends and anticipating their policy preferences as they assume increasingly important leadership positions is critical to a well-grounded understanding of Northeast Asia in the 21st century. This report represents the culmination of a year-long initiative launched by NBR to provide U.S. government and corporate leaders with a better understanding of East Asia’s future leadership. By examining the qualities and characteristics that define these rising leaders and distinguish them from their predecessors, the initiative explores the possible implications of their emerging influence for U.S. foreign, economic, and security policy interests.