noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
south; southward; southern direction
General directional noun; often used with の to modify another noun, or with particles like へ, に, を.
台風は南方へ進んでいる。
The typhoon is moving southward.
南方の島々は温暖な気候
The southern islands have a warm climate.
noun
southern countries; the South (esp. Southeast Asia and the pre-WWII South Pacific Mandate)
Refers to countries or regions to the south of Japan, especially in historical or geopolitical contexts. Often implies Southeast Asia or the former Japanese South Pacific Mandate.
戦前、日本は南方に多くの資源を求めた。
Before the war, Japan sought many resources in the South.
南方の国々との貿易が増えている。
Trade with southern countries is increasing.