A conceptual analysis of China’s soft power in contemporary South East Asia

This thesis conducts a rigorous examination of China's soft power in contemporary East Asia, focusing on the overarching research question of how China strategically deploys soft power tools within the region. The study defines and contextualizes soft power in international relations, probing its theoretical underpinnings and limitations. Centered on China, the research analyzes cultural, economic, and public diplomacy initiatives, along with media campaigns, exploring their collective impact on shaping China's national image. Employing a case study approach, with Vietnam as an illustrative example, the thesis critically assesses the efficacy of these strategies in influencing regional perceptions and power dynamics.