For scholars of international relations, “theory” is regarded as an important intellectual tool for explaining history, analyzing current conditions, and predicting the future. Current scholarship offers many different interpretations of the relationship between Southeast Asian countries and China, yet there is little comprehensive explanation that examines the relationship between theoretical tools and empirical facts. In light of this, this article takes different research traditions in international relations theory as its foundation and seeks to present possible regional scenarios constituted by relations between China and Southeast Asia. On this basis, it further analyzes possible actions and strategies of the actors involved in shaping peace and stable development in Southeast Asia and East Asia. After reviewing various theories, this article argues that there are at least five conditions for regional stability: first, the United States needs to strengthen its commitment to strategic deployment in Southeast Asia; second, China needs to slow the development and application of offensive weapons; third, economic, trade, and investment relations between Southeast Asia and China need to improve and move toward mutual benefit; fourth, countries in the region need to accelerate democratic political development; and fifth, ASEAN regional organizations must become more effective regional organizations capable of coordinating differences. Otherwise, the region will find it difficult to move toward peace and stability.