This course explores the dynamics of soft power in East Asia, focusing on China, Japan, and South Korea. The course aims to develop students' intercultural competence and sensitivity, enhancing their understanding of East Asian influence through a blend of disciplines like geopolitics, international policy, nonproliferation, and applied linguistics. This course will prepare students for professional careers in East Asia or related international fields, fostering critical analysis, cultural humility, and effective communication across diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Major class activities include extensive reading authentic resources; analyzing and discussing the East Asian cultural influences in the regions and the world; writing regularly; presentations [research-based assignments]; and study of vocabulary, kanji compounds, expressions, idioms, and advanced grammar. The final project is on a topic of your own choosing. Students will have an opportunity to present their research findings at the Monterey-Model event at the Irvine Auditorium.