Utilizing Social Media Platforms for Soft Power Projection in East Asia: The Role of Digital Diplomacy (2015-2025)

Abstract

This study investigates the role of social media platforms in promoting digital diplomacy and soft power projection in East Asia. The research uses quantitative analysis to gain a thorough understanding of regional diplomatic strategy. The study of how East Asian countries strategically use social media to increase their international influence is guided by soft power and network diplomacy theoretical frameworks. The study focuses on significant events, such as diplomatic summits like the ASEAN Regional Forum and the East Asia Summit, cultural exchanges like China's Confucius Institutes and Japan's Cool Japan initiative, and public diplomacy initiatives like South Korea's K-pop diplomacy. These events serve as case studies for demonstrating effective examples of digital diplomacy in action. This multidisciplinary study contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the interactions between social media, soft power, and international politics. Aside from diplomatic summits and cultural exchanges, other notable events such as crisis responses and public outreach initiatives have a huge impact on moulding views and affecting international relations. For example, swift information transmission and coordinated social media reactions during natural catastrophes or geopolitical tensions may demonstrate a country's competence, resilience, and readiness to engage with other countries. Similarly, public outreach programmes that highlight a country's successes in technology, healthcare, or environmental sustainability can help to boost its reputation and appeal on a worldwide scale. The findings are useful for policymakers, diplomats, and researchers who want to use digital platforms to project soft power effectively in East Asia and elsewhere.