In international relations, "soft power" refers to the ability of a country to influence others through cultural appeal, values, and diplomatic efforts rather than through military or economic coercion, which is often termed "hard power." Soft power involves leveraging culture, ideology, and institutions to foster cooperation and build positive relationships. Countries employing soft power seek to enhance their global standing, increase influence, and achieve strategic goals through collaboration, attraction, and persuasion, emphasizing the importance of non-coercive methods in international diplomacy.