This thesis investigates the appropriate role of Korean peacekeepers in post-conflict
societies and the function of the troop-contributing government of Korea in leading
successful peace operations. It examines scholarly discussions regarding peacekeeping
success—including conditions and criteria for successful peacekeeping—and applies the
factors regarding mandates to Korean peace operations in East Timor and Lebanon. The
two country case studies view the results of Korean peace operations from a long-term
perspective, applying relevant evaluation factors closely related to the nature of
peacekeeping force activities, and avoiding evaluations based on reports from local media
and Korean pro-governmental news networks. For successful peace operations, troopcontributing
governments should clearly and narrowly order the scope of force activities
regardless of the specific field of activity. Despite claims that use of force is needed in
more violent contemporary situations, rigorous adherence to the rule of engagement by
military contingents will likely create positive outcomes if the force employs friendshipbuilding
efforts along with security operations. However, for more fruitful efforts in
peacekeeping operations, the military troops and their government should be more
deliberate regarding capacity-building activities to most benefit sustainable development
and local ownership.