International relations theory tends to be characterized by a dichotomy between those who
emphasize international constraints with regards to grand strategy and foreign policy
decisions, most often associated with realist theories of international relations, and those who
emphasize domestic factors, most notably liberal theories. These two approaches are often
framed as if they were incompatible. This article attempts to contribute to bridging the gap
by examining the presidencies of Syngman Rhee and Park Chung Hee of the Republic of Korea.
A comparison between the two presidencies reveals very different political visions for the
Republic of Korea. However, it also shows very contrasting grand strategy and foreign policy
options under similar international constraints. This is consistent with neoclassical realist
theory and the idea that grand strategy and foreign policy are fundamentally determined by
international pressures but nevertheless are also influenced by domestic-level factors.