European exploration had significant effects on East Asian countries, primarily resulting in trade expansions and cultural exchanges. While European contact did introduce new goods, ideas, and technologies to East Asia, it also impacted the political and social landscapes of these regions, leading to complex interactions rather than complete isolation or the cessation of local governance.
To summarize, the most accurate option among those listed would be:
- It resulted in trade expansions and cultural exchanges.
European exploration opened trade routes and facilitated the exchange of not only goods, but also ideas and cultures, despite the various challenges and conflicts that arose from these interactions.