Soft Power in Japan’s state foreign policy in the 21st century

Authors: Alexey Barinov, Master’s degree student, Basic Department of Institute of China and Contemporary Asia of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Faculty of World Economy and International Affairs, HSE University

Dmitriy Panasyuk, Master’s degree student, Basic Department of Institute of China and Contemporary Asia of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Faculty of World Economy and International Affairs, HSE University

Denis Zlobin, Master’s degree student, Basic Department of Institute of China and Contemporary Asia of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Faculty of World Economy and International Affairs, HSE University

Source: Unsplash

Introduction

The twenty-first century is the era of globalization. Against the backdrop of growing horizontal ties between states and unprecedented stability, the measures of political influence have changed. It can be said that under such conditions, attempts to project one's political will by standard methods traditionally classified as “hard power” can do more harm than good. In these circumstances, the role of another type of political influence, the so-called “soft power”, is increasing. One of the states practicing soft power is Japan. It is Japan's soft power as an element of foreign policy of the 21st century that is the subject for analysis in this essay.

Before we get to the description of Japanese soft power, it is worth defining what we mean by it. This essay proposes to use the traditional definition of “soft power” given by Joseph Nye: “when one country gets other countries to want what it wants might be called co-optive or soft power in contrast with the hard or command power of ordering others to do what it wants”¹. So, we will research Japanese capabilities in this regard according to the provided definition.

Dimensions of Japan’s Soft Power

Japan has invested in promoting the Japanese language abroad through various programs and institutions. The Japan Foundation², for example, supports Japanese language education by providing resources, training teachers, and establishing partnerships with foreign educational institutions. The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is administered globally, encouraging non-native speakers to learn Japanese. This test not only promotes language learning but also fosters interest in Japanese culture and society. Many Japanese universities have established partnerships with foreign institutions, facilitating student exchanges³. These exchanges provide students with firsthand experience of Japanese culture and society, enhancing cross-cultural understanding. Japan promotes STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education through partnerships with international institutions. Initiatives like the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) facilitate research collaborations and knowledge exchange.

Japan has leveraged its rich cultural heritage to enhance its soft power. The global popularity of Japanese pop culture—anime, manga, cuisine, and fashion—has created a favorable image of Japan worldwide. Events like the "Cool Japan" initiative aim to promote Japanese culture abroad, fostering goodwill and interest in Japanese values⁴. Cultural exchanges, such as student exchange programs and art exhibitions, further enhance mutual understanding and goodwill.

Japan's commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law aligns with its soft power strategy. By advocating these values in international forums, Japan positions itself as a leader in promoting stability and peace in the region. This approach has attracted partnerships with other democratic nations and has been particularly effective in building relationships with Southeast Asian countries that share similar values.

Japan is one of the largest providers of official development assistance (ODA) in the world. Through its ODA programs, Japan not only supports economic development in partner countries, but also fosters strong bilateral relationships. This assistance often comes with a focus on infrastructure, disaster relief, and capacity-building, which contribute to regional stability and security.

Japan actively participates in multilateral organizations, such as the United Nations and ASEAN, and engages in peacekeeping missions. This engagement enhances Japan's credibility as a responsible global actor and strengthens its alliances. Japan's role in international forums allows it to advocate for issues like climate change and disaster response, which are increasingly relevant to national security.

The Role of Soft Power in Japan's National Security Strategy

Japan's soft power initiatives have been pivotal in promoting regional stability in East Asia. By fostering cultural ties and economic partnerships, Japan helps mitigate tensions with its neighbors, particularly China and South Korea. Soft

power serves as a tool for dialogue and collaboration, addressing historical grievances and fostering mutual understanding.

Japan's soft power enhances its ability to forge alliances and partnerships. Countries that perceive Japan as a benevolent actor are more likely to collaborate on security issues. For instance, Japan's outreach to ASEAN countries through cultural diplomacy and economic cooperation has strengthened its position as a key partner in regional security frameworks.

Japan's soft power boosts its global influence, allowing it to shape norms and policies that align with its national interests. By promoting values such as sustainable development and disaster resilience, Japan can lead discussions on global challenges that impact national security.

Japan's soft power is particularly relevant in addressing non-traditional security threats, such as climate change, pandemics, and cyber threats. By leading initiatives in these areas, Japan not only enhances its own security, but also contributes to global stability. For example, Japan's proactive stance on disaster preparedness and response has positioned it as a leader in international disaster relief efforts.

Conclusion

Soft power in Japan’s state foreign policy in the 21st century increasingly recognizes the importance as a means of enhancing its global influence and addressing regional challenges. Through cultural diplomacy, educational exchanges, and international cooperation, Japan is building a network of allies that can support its security interests. As the global landscape continues to evolve, Japan's commitment to soft power will likely play a crucial role in shaping its national security strategy and ensuring its position as a key player in the international community.

Thus, Japan's approach to soft power reflects a nuanced understanding of contemporary security issues, emphasizing the need for collaboration and mutual understanding in an increasingly complex world. By leveraging its cultural heritage and diplomatic traditions, Japan not only enhances its national security but also contributes to a more stable and peaceful international order.

¹ Nye, J. S. (1990). Soft Power. Foreign Policy, 80, 166.

² Shakirov, E. (2014). Japan's soft power. Discourse-P, 11 (2-3), 142-143.

³ Moskvina, O., Kolyshkina, S. (2023). Priority Directions of Japan’s Soft Power Policy in the XXI century. Ideas and Ideals, 15 (1-2), 359-360.

⁴ Matosyan, A. (2025). Soft power and Cool Japan: shaping Japan's national image. International Relations, (1), 48.