North Korea is no longer merely surviving—it is strategically maneuvering. Against the backdrop of a fraying global order and eroding sanctions enforcement, Pyongyang has deepened wartime collaboration with Russia while leaning on China to sustain its economic core. What may appear as opportunistic bandwagoning is, in fact, a calibrated strategy—one that seeks regime durability, economic windfalls, and enhanced geopolitical relevance.

In today’s contested Indo-Pacific, China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is no longer simply modernizing—it is transforming. Guided by artificial intelligence, automation, and top-down political control, the PLA’s strategic shift toward “intelligentization” reflects Beijing’s bold ambition to field a “world-class military” by 2049. In Episode 47 of Dialogue, I sat down with Elsa B. Kania—respected expert on China’s military innovation—to examine how this transformation may shape the future of war.

Taiwan is navigating the dual pressures of domestic democratic contestation and rising external threats across the Strait. In this episode, Howard Shen explores Taiwan’s political dynamics, evolving defense posture, and how identity and deterrence intersect in shaping its strategic future.

In today’s Indo-Pacific, China’s engagement with the Global South is no longer a future possibility—it is a lived reality reshaping influence, investment, and the rules of the international order. Episode 45 of Dialogue features a timely exchange with Eric Olander, Editor-in-Chief of the China Global South Project. With grounded clarity, Olander analyzes China’s expanding presence across the region—its recalibrated Belt and Road strategy, contested resource ambitions, digital influence campaigns, and the growing agency of Indo-Pacific nations navigating these dynamics.

South Asia is undergoing a strategic and industrial realignment that is reshaping its defense posture, regional partnerships, and security dynamics. In this episode of Dialogue, Professor Shyam Tekwani, a leading expert on South Asian security, shares insights from decades of experience in the region, offering a sober yet forward-looking analysis of the forces remaking South Asia’s strategic landscape.

China’s rapid nuclear expansion is altering the global security landscape, prompting urgent questions about intent, deterrence, and strategic stability. As Dr. Bill Wieninger—former U.S. Air Force officer and current professor at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies—explained in a recent Dialogue episode, “China’s nuclear rise presents a complex and evolving challenge.”

India finds itself at the heart of a rapidly shifting security landscape, balancing the challenges of border tensions, maritime competition, and evolving defense partnerships. In this episode of Dialogue, Dr. Srini Sitaraman, a professor at DKI APCSS and an expert on Indo-Pacific security, offered a deep dive into India’s strategic calculations—from its uneasy standoff with China to its expanding defense cooperation with the United States and the Quad.

Malaysia is at the heart of Indo-Pacific maritime security, balancing sovereignty, economic interests, and regional cooperation. Nor Aini binti Mohd Nordin, a rising young leader in maritime strategy, joins Dialogue to discuss Malaysia’s Maritime Shield—how the nation protects its waters amid evolving threats and challenges.

Myanmar marks four years since the military junta seized power, plunging the nation into ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises. Dr. Miemie Winn Byrd explores the resilience of the Myanmar people, the impact of China’s involvement, and the lessons learned from other conflicts like Syria in shaping the nation’s future.

As global economic conflict intensifies, Canada stands at the forefront of a high-stakes battle for resources, technology, and influence. In Frontlines of Economic Warfare, Raquel Garbers explores Canada’s vulnerabilities, strategic opportunities, and the urgent policy shifts needed to navigate this complex landscape.

In Dialogue 37, we explore rising geopolitical tensions and the increasing need to navigate the Indo-Pacific’s complex security landscape. Join us for a discussion on The Indo-Pacific Mosaic, a new book edited by Dr. James Minnich, which offers crucial insights and a path toward a more stable and resilient region.

The idyllic turquoise waters and vibrant cultures of the Indo-Pacific often mask a harsher reality. This vast region, home to two-thirds of humanity, is increasingly shaped by a confluence of crises. Devastating typhoons in the Philippines, rising sea levels threatening the Pacific Islands, and geopolitical rivalries colliding with humanitarian needs create a complex and precarious landscape for aid delivery. In Dialogue Episode 35, Jonathan Robinson, a seasoned humanitarian adviser and assistant professor at the U.S. Naval War College, joined me to examine this precarious intersection of humanity and geopolitics

South Korea, often hailed as a beacon of democracy in Asia, finds itself navigating a profound political crisis that has raised questions about its democratic stability and governance. The impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol following his December 3rd declaration of martial law has sent shockwaves across the nation and the region. While the swift response from South Korea’s institutions and the public demonstrates the strength of its democratic framework, the crisis also highlights vulnerabilities that demand attention.

Sri Lanka’s recent parliamentary election redefined its political landscape. The National People’s Power (NPP) party secured a historic two-thirds majority under the proportional representation system, a first in the nation’s democratic history. On November 21, the new government officially took office, signaling what many hope will be a transformative era for Sri Lanka. This critical issue was the focus of Dialogue 34, where DKI APCSS Professor Shyam Tekwani joined me to discuss the election’s extensive implications. Reflecting on this historic juncture, Professor Tekwani remarked, “The journey from Serendip to Sri Lanka through Ceylon is one of lost opportunities and wasted potential. This election, however, may represent the chance to rewrite that narrative.”

The space race isn’t over; it has simply evolved into a new, more complex phase. While Cold War rivalries may have faded, a different kind of competition is now underway – a race to ensure the long-term sustainability of this critical domain. With the number of satellites and space actors growing exponentially, the need for responsible behavior and international cooperation has never been more pressing. This was the central theme of Dialogue 33, where experts Dr. Namrata Goswami and Sam Wilson joined DKI APCSS professors Dr. James Minnich and Dr. Al Oehlers to explore the critical challenges and opportunities in securing the future of space.

What are Seoul’s strategic options in response to North Korea’s troop deployment to Russia amid the Ukraine conflict? Dr. Lami Kim explores the risks of technology transfers, phased response strategies, and the delicate balance between deterrence and escalation in this evolving security challenge.

Dive deep into the future of underwater competition with leading experts from around the globe! This webinar unites five specialists from Korea, the United States, and India to explore the critical challenges and emerging technologies in underwater competition, maritime domain awareness, seabed warfare, and the protection of vital submarine cables.

As the war in Ukraine grinds on with no clear resolution in sight, the international community faces mounting pressure to explore pathways toward ending the conflict. Ukraine’s uncertain future was the focus of Episode 30 of Dialogue, “Conflict’s End in Ukraine,” where DKI APCSS professor Dr. James Minnich discussed these dynamics with Dr. Marzena Żakowska, an assistant professor and lecturer at the Faculty of National Security at War Studies University in Warsaw, Poland.

As the geopolitical landscape in the Indo-Pacific continues to evolve, Malaysia finds itself navigating a delicate balance between two global superpowers: the United States and China. This intricate maneuvering was the focus of Episode 29 of Dialogue, “Malaysia Between Giants,” where DKI APCSS professor Dr. James Minnich discussed these dynamics with Elina Noor of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

The South China Sea is one of the world’s most contested and strategically significant regions. Covering over 3.5 million square kilometers, it is a vital maritime corridor and a resource-rich zone, home to fisheries, oil, and natural gas. Roughly one-third of global maritime trade passes through these waters, making the region essential for East and Southeast Asian economies and global commerce.

Join us for an insightful discussion with Shafqat Munir, Senior Fellow at the Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS), as we delve into Bangladesh’s complex and evolving security turmoil following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s public ouster.

The recent deepening of ties between North Korea and Russia, marked by the signing of a mutual defense treaty in June 2024, signals a significant development with far-reaching consequences for the Asia-Pacific region. This evolving alliance was the focus of a recent episode of the Security Nexus Webinar hosted by the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies, featuring a discussion between Professor James Minnich and Rachel Minyoung Lee, Senior Fellow at the Stimson Center.

Embark on an illuminating journey into the heart of China’s Strategic Culture: Confucianism or Realpolitik? Join us as we unravel the intricate tapestry of how the ancient wisdom of Confucianism continues to weave its threads into China’s contemporary geopolitical strategies.

The Security Nexus Webinar recently featured an in-depth discussion on the evolving landscape of jihadist terrorism in the Indo-Pacific. This long-form interview, hosted by Dr. James Minnich, a retired U.S. Army Colonel, DKI APCSS professor, and editor of the forthcoming book “The Indo-Pacific Mosaic: Comprehensive Security Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific,” provided a platform for a comprehensive dialogue between Dr. Minnich and his guest, Dr. Sam Mullins. Dr. Mullins, an expert in terrorism and a contributing author to the forthcoming volume, presented his research highlighting the resurgence and resilience of jihadist networks in the post-Caliphate era.

In the latest episode of the Security Nexus Webinar, Dr. Srini Sitaraman provided an insightful analysis of India’s 2024 general elections and their implications for the country’s governance and political landscape. Hosted by retired U.S. Army Colonel and Professor James Minnich from the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (DKI APCSS), the episode delved into critical issues such as coalition politics, governance challenges, economic promises, and the impact of disinformation.

On June 25, 2024, the Security Nexus Webinar, hosted by Dr. James Minnich, featured Professor Shyam Tekwani from DKI APCSS. The episode “India’s Security Outlook in Modi’s Third Term” explored the implications of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership on India’s domestic, regional, and global security landscape.

Outlaw motorcycle gangs (OMGs) are rapidly expanding their criminal empires, posing an escalating threat to national and transnational security. Join us as we delve into these organizations’ origins and evolution, sophisticated criminal networks, and impact on communities worldwide.

On May 28, the Security Nexus Webinar, hosted by Dr. James Minnich, Colonel USA Retired and DKI APCSS Professor, featured a compelling discussion with Dr. Rouben Azizian, Professor at Massey University’s Centre for Defence and Security Studies, New Zealand. The session focused on the state of the war in Ukraine, its impact on global power dynamics, the evolving security landscape in the Indo-Pacific region, and so much more. 

In a rapidly changing Indo-Pacific, understanding the Philippines’ strategic decisions is critical for policymakers, military leaders, and anyone invested in regional stability. The Philippines, a crucial player, faces a dynamic security landscape shaped by historical alliances and modern partnerships like the recent trilateral summit. As the nation navigates complex regional shifts, including China’s assertiveness, it leans on partners like Japan.

Technology is reshaping the global order. Nations no longer compete solely through military might but through technological dominance. From semiconductors to artificial intelligence, control of critical and emerging technologies (CET) translates into economic power, national security, and global [...]

The world is changing. Are your strategies? Nations are vying for dominance in the Gray Zone – a shadowy realm of covert operations, cyber-attacks, and relentless disinformation campaigns waged below the level of open warfare. Join us for the Security Nexus Webinar | Episode 13: “Competing in the Gray Zone” to explore this evolving threat landscape and how it’s reshaping global power with Professor Sam Mullins and host Professor James Minnich

In the latest episode of the Security Nexus Webinar, viewers were treated to an enlightening discussion that ventured deep into the heart of North Korea’s complex socio-political landscape. Episode 11, titled “North Korea beyond the Headlines, Unveiling the Reality with Glyn Ford,” was expertly navigated by host James Minnich, a retired Colonel of the United States Army and a distinguished professor at DKI APCSS. North Korea, often depicted through a lens of hostility and isolation, was dissected beyond its typical portrayal, revealing the intricacies that underpin its actions on the global stage. The webinar emphasized the importance of looking past sensationalism to understand the realist security concerns, domestic political considerations, and the normative symbols that shape North Korea’s identity and aspirations.

By James M. Minnich  The vast expanse of the Indo-Pacific conceals a dark secret: sea slavery, a human rights crisis entwined with unsustainable fishing practices. From idyllic coastlines to the open ocean, forced labor, abuse, and environmental [...]

This Webinar features esteemed guest Professor Michael Burgoyne alongside host Professor James Minnich. Engage in enlightening discussions that navigate Taiwan’s post-election trajectory, unravel geopolitical tensions, and explore defense strategies. Gain valuable insights into Taiwan’s evolving landscape post-election, encompassing [...]

From DKI APCSS in Honolulu, Hawaii, we bring you the latest Security Nexus | Webinar highlights! Hosted by Professor James Minnich, the webinar delved into the intricate nuclear landscape of the Indo-Pacific, featuring Dr. Lami Kim, an esteemed expert in nuclear proliferation and Northeast Asian security.

The Security Nexus | Webinar became a pivotal platform on Monday, December 4th, as it unraveled the complexities shaping the Indo-Pacific region. Focused on exploring China’s evolving security posture, the webinar shed light on the profound geopolitical dynamics between China and the United States.

In this episode, Dr. James Minnich hosts Dr. Sebastian Kevany, a prominent health security expert with extensive experience in global missions. They discuss current health security challenges in the Indo-Pacific, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing interconnected health and security issues. The conversation covers global success stories in health security, the significance of international cooperation, and the role of technology and innovation in strengthening health security.

The Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies, the Korea Institute for Maritime Strategy (KIMS), and the Japan Institute for International Affairs (JIIA), hosted a trilateral Security Nexus webinar on China's Maritime Strategy on October 31, 2023.