This study examines the current status of the Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI) by reviewing its establishment background and historical evolution, major activities and achievements, and the development of internal discussions on its transition into an international organization. It assesses the necessity and feasibility of GTI’s legal transformation. Over the past three decades, GTI has played a meaningful role as a platform for dialogue and cooperation in Northeast Asia; however, the absence of an independent international legal personality has imposed structural constraints on project implementation and resource mobilization. To overcome these limitations, GTI member states have formed a broad consensus in principle on the need for legal transformation, and past discussions have already laid a substantial institutional and legal foundation for such a transition. Drawing on comparative analyses of regional development and cooperation frameworks similar to GTI−such as APEC, ACMECS, CAN/CAF, and ADB−this study derives policy implications and proposes a concrete, step-by-step legal, institutional, and policy roadmap for GTI’s transition into an international organization. In particular, through joint research with participating institutions of the GTI Research Institute Network, the study synthesizes member states’ positions and perspectives on the legal transition, and explores cooperative approaches to overcoming differences and building consensus. In this respect, the study makes a significant contribution to advancing practical pathways toward GTI’s institutional transformation.

Executive Summary

Contributors

Chapter 1. Introduction
1. Background
2. Objective

Chapter 2. The Historical Evolution, Achievements, and Collaborative Dynamics of GTI
1. Overview of GTI: Historical Background and Evolution
2. Achievements and Limitations
3. Looking Ahead: Balancing Achievements and Challenges

Chapter 3. Rationale for Legal Transition
1. Previous Discussions on Legal Transition
2. Environmental Analysis

Chapter 4. Comprehensive Frameworks and Strategic Suggestions for Legal Transition
1. Comparative Analysis of Regional Cooperation Models and Implications
2. Strategic Plan for Legal Transition

Chapter 5. Perspectives and Evaluations of Member Countries
1. China
2. Mongolia
3. South Korea
4. Russia

Chapter 6. Conclusion
1. Summary of Findings
2. Policy Implications
3. Strategic Directions for GTI’s Institutional Transformation

References