Comparison of Military Expenditure

This chart compares the military expenditure of South Korea, the USA, Japan, Taiwan, and China from 1989 to 2023. By analyzing the annual military spending of each country, we can understand their military priorities and economic conditions. Notably, China's military expenditure has shown a significant increase, highlighting a rapid growth compared to other countries.

Comparison of Military Expenditure

This chart compares the military expenditure of South Korea, the USA, Japan, Taiwan, and China from 1989 to 2023.

Military expenditure refers to the total financial resources a country allocates to all activities related to its military. This includes defense budgets, procurement of weapons and equipment, military training, and maintenance costs.

The relationship between Taiwan and China remains extremely tense. China considers Taiwan a part of its territory and maintains that it could use military force to achieve reunification if necessary. This stance is a strong reaction against any moves by Taiwan towards independence.

The increase in China's military spending and its enhanced military capabilities heighten the possibility of an invasion of Taiwan. In recent years, China has intensified military exercises around Taiwan, putting significant pressure on Taiwan's security.

Should China take military action against Taiwan, the response of neighboring countries, including the United States, will be a critical issue. The United States maintains an informal alliance with Taiwan and is likely to support its defense. Japan and South Korea, considering their alliances with the United States, might also provide military support against China's invasion of Taiwan. However, the involvement of these countries would depend on their respective political and economic contexts.

United States of America

The military spending of the United States increased from $321.87 billion in 1989 to $916.01 billion in 2023, a 2.84-fold increase. This demonstrates the continuous strengthening of the U.S. as a global military power. The United States invests heavily to maintain military superiority in its strategic competition with China.

China

China's military spending rose from $11.25 billion in 1989 to $296.44 billion in 2023, a 26.35-fold increase. This reflects China's rapid military buildup. China exerts strong military pressure on Taiwan and keeps the possibility of an invasion on the table.

Japan

Japan's military spending grew from $27.97 billion in 1989 to $50.16 billion in 2023, a 1.79-fold increase. Despite constitutional constraints, Japan is bolstering its defense capabilities in response to the military threat from China.

Republic of Korea

South Korea's military spending increased from $9.47 billion in 1989 to $47.93 billion in 2023, a 5.06-fold increase. South Korea consistently raises its military budget to counter threats from North Korea and prepare for China's military expansion.

Taiwan

Taiwan's military spending rose from $8.14 billion in 1989 to $16.61 billion in 2023, a 2.04-fold increase. Taiwan is focused on strengthening its defense capabilities in the face of the threat of invasion from China.

The military buildup by China and its threats towards Taiwan are heightening military tensions in East Asia. The United States, Japan, and South Korea are increasing their military budgets to prepare for China's expansion, and they are likely to support Taiwan's defense. This situation significantly impacts the security and peace in the East Asian region.