This thesis examines China's response to South Korea's THAAD deployment in 2016. The decision had diplomatic, economic, cultural, and societal impacts, consequently straining Korea-China relations. The analysis evaluates distinct hypotheses for China's motivations, including national security, geopolitical influence, economic and cultural interests, and maintaining national "face." The study suggests China's broader ambition to be a regional leader influenced its actions, but these actions unintentionally strengthened the U.S.-Korea alliance and fueled domestic anti-China sentiments. The thesis also highlights the economic and cultural impacts, noting the withdrawal of Korean companies from China and their replacement by Chinese firms. The concept of Chinese "national face" is also found to be a key factor in the retaliation.By delving into the THAAD controversy, the thesis offers insights into shifts in China's foreign policy and the system's role within Korea-China dynamics. The thesis underscores the complex strategic considerations in foreign policy decisions, especially under multifaceted domestic and international pressures. It emphasizes the unintended outcomes of policies driven by "national face," with implications for how China pursues its regional and global objectives

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Major, Republic of Korea Air Force