Japan's Soft Power in the 21st Century: Between Economic Success and Political Failure (original) (raw)

This article examines the nuances of Japan's soft power in the 21st century, highlighting the country's effective use of cultural resources to influence global perceptions while faced with political challenges in the region. It explores Japan's initiatives, such as the Cool Japan Fund and public diplomacy efforts, showcasing the economic success driven by cultural export, particularly in popular culture and cuisine. However, it emphasizes that while soft power can enhance economic ties and cultural admiration, it does not necessarily translate into favorable political relations, especially with neighboring countries like China and South Korea, where historical tensions persist.