Thai Journal of East Asian Studies

Under the Eagle’s Wings, Counterbalancing the Dragon: Threat Perceptions to Strategic Alignments of Japan and Vietnam

Paniti Chaichana — 2026-06-24

This article investigates the influence of threat perception on historical legacies and economic ties in the strategic alignment of Japan and Vietnam from 2010 to 2020. Documentary research and qualitative comparative analysis are used to create a theoretical explanation. Results are that Japan and Vietnam share a common threat perception, driven by mistrust based on historical legacies and strategic vulnerability from economic ties. Thus, Japan and Vietnam have pursued strategic alignment with the United States by establishing internal and external institutions and concurrently forming alliances to counterbalance China, seen as a key threat by Japan and Vietnam.

Analyzing Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi Vocabulary Levels in Chinese Food Brand Advertisements on the Weibo Social Media Platform in 2024

Kanmanee Suwannasereeruk — 2026-06-24

This quantitative research with qualitative interpretation analyzes 1) the distribution of Chinese vocabulary in Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) levels in leading Chinese food brand advertisements on the Weibo platform in 2024; 2) frequency of vocabulary usage in levels 1 to 9; and 3) vocabulary item characteristically absent from HSK vocabulary lists in advertising language. Data is collected from ten major Chinese food company advertisements with 18,156 words, including 3,355 unique words. Comparison to HSK Levels 1 to 9 vocabulary lists shows that the vocabulary covers all levels, with items not in the HSK lists comprising the largest proportion (46.29%). These non-HSK items are placed in three key categories: food and brand-specific; marketing and promotional; and internet-based atmospheric. Next, high-level vocabulary (HSK 7 to 9) is at 11.92%, with elementary to intermediate levels (HSK 1 to 6) at 4.77% to 8.88% of the total. In terms of frequency, basic words such as “的”, “一”, “吃”, “来”, and “你” appeared oftenest, reflecting structural simplicity and strategic semiotic use. These findings suggest a gap between textbook language and commercial language use, which may help to develop foundational business Chinese vocabulary and promote digital literacy through informal language learning in society today.

Queer Interpretations Across Cultural Texts: A Comparative Analysis of Identity and Transformation in The Little Mermaid and The Legend of the White Snake

Khantisan Siengchin — 2026-06-24

This qualitative research comparatively analyzes queer identity and trans-species transformation in the literary works The Little Mermaid by Hans Christian Andersen and the Chinese folktale The Legend of the White Snake. Using literary analysis and comparative literary methodology, the study is framed by Queer Theory, specifically focusing on Judith Butler’s concept of performativity and the concept of humanormativity. Results are that both narratives reflect painful identity transitions and forbidden love; despite being systemically suppressed, the characters show resilience in pursuing agency and self-existence. Future research might expand to other media forms and analyze reception by the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and other (LGBTQ+) community.

Thai Buddhism and Diplomacy: Historical Foundations, Religious Soft Power, and Contemporary Challenges

Xiangyun Li — 2026-06-24

This paper explores the role of Thai Buddhism as religious soft power in the public diplomacy of Thailand by examining its application of ethical language, institutions, and overseas networks in foreign exchanges. Additionally, diverse diplomatic values are compared in different situations. A structured review of English-language scholarship, historical institutional analysis, and contemporary case studies of a multilateral Buddhist platform, Buddhist-linked humanitarian engagement, and overseas Thai temples are included. The historical relationship between Thai Buddhism, the monarchy and state authority is traced, with credibility factors shaping contemporary practice analyzed. Results are that Thai Buddhist diplomacy has enhanced its influence and promoted continuous interaction through moral narratives, international forums, and transnational networks, but effects vary by context and credibility. Domestic Sangha disputes and perceptions of politicization or state intervention may weaken religious authority, while increasing competition from China and India might prevent expansion of influence by Thailand. This concession between credibility and autonomy in Buddhist diplomacy is explained with suggestions for improving credibility and continuity.

Disability Publics: Making Accessibility in Modern Japan

Benjamin Ivry — 2026-06-24

Disability Publics: Making Accessibility in Modern Japan explores how over the past 150 years, attitudes toward disability in Japan have evolved. Rather than a constant progression, there have been constant impediments and new challenges. The book uses research methods from history, anthropology, sociology, and political science, as well as media and communication studies. The title of this Open Access study available for free download refers to diverse groups of disabled people and stakeholders who have fought to define and implement accessibility and inclusion measures in Japanese society. Publics provide sociopolitical spaces where debates and actions occur. Over a century and a half, activists, lawmakers, and others have shaped the concept of disability in Japan. As a case study, Japan has the third largest economy and most rapidly aging population in the world. Dr. Bookman asserts that insofar as the Japanese experience reflects international advances in disability rights, the subject should be of interest to students of Japanese history and society, as well as those focusing on human rights, military matters, government, consumerism, geriatric care, and industrial innovation worldwide.

The Collapse of Nationalist China: How Chiang Kai-shek Lost China's Civil War

Juan Miguel Palero — 2026-06-24

This book review analyzes The Collapse of Nationalist China: How Chiang Kai-shek Lost China's Civil War by Parks M. Coble, which offers a new perspective on the downfall of Nationalist China under Chiang Kai-shek by focusing on its economic causes. Utilizing newly accessible archival sources, Coble ably argued that the inability of prudent decision-making and ignorance of Chiang Kai-shek when it comes to finance and banking outweigh the political, military, and diplomatic predicaments as the main catalyst for the failure of the Nationalist government. In addition, Coble stressed that squabbles and jealousy between Chiang’s brothers-in-law, T.V. Soong and H.H. Kung, which he personally fostered, worsened the already complex economic situation. Ultimately, Coble’s detailed observations and interpretations have made it evident to its readers that the failure of the Nationalist China was a paradigmatic instance of centering too much political authority in an individual.