In OTL, we had the Russo-Japanese War, with the US playing the role of peacemaker. Yet it didn't have to be that way, because in 1882 the US and Korea
signed the "Korean-American Treaty of Amity and Commerce", which included a clause for "mutual friendship and defense"(Wiki article,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinmiyangyo ) So if the American Diplomats are a bit smarter than
historically, and get a small modicum of trade with Korea, and the Koreans are less intransigent and smarter than in OTL, and recognize Japan and Russia as the
greater threats, then the US may feel obligated to intercede on behalf of the Koreans when the Russians encroach on them. It may also lead to a joint
American-Japanese alliance, to deter or even defeat the Russians. Any of you care to speculate on how this plays out? It certainly will make for a fine wargame
campaign, lots of whangs at sea and booms ashore!
Later, Bill
Later, Bill



