The Impact of the 20th Party Congress on North Korea-China Relations

Choi Eun-ju

(ej0717@sejong.org)

Research Fellow,

The Sejong Institute

English Abstract

Introduction

This paper focuses on Chinese policies outlined in the 20th Party Congress which may affect North Korea-China relations.

It aims to overview the future of North Korea-China relations that has been growing closer since the 20th Party Congress following the US-China strategic competition and the war in Ukraine.

Increased North Korea-China Connections from Ideological Standpoint

In the 20th Party Congress Report, China presented its accomplishment on its all-out effort for establishing the Party’s complete and centralized leadership and ‘Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era.’

The construction of a ‘great modern socialist country’ and the ‘rejuvenation of the Chinese nation’ was presented as the key objective of the CCP.

It has to be noted that ideological connections between North Korea and China have been expanded in the 20th Party Congress.

Given that North Korea’s ideology and system are similar to those of China, it has strengthened its support for China against the US’ ideological offensives

China’s Foreign Policy Perceptions and Strengthening of North Korea-China Strategic Cooperation

Stating that the world, the times and history are undergoing unprecedented transformation and that the future of the world depends on the choices made by each country, China claimed that it stands against all forms of hegemony and seeks to establish a new type of international relations.

China is expected to consolidate its relations with regional and developing countries rather than restoring its relations with advanced countries. The Report also outlined the construction of a new type of international relations focused on increasing cooperation with developing countries and protecting common interests.

The need for cooperation, solidarity and strategic communications between North Korea and China is increasing given the complex regional and global changes. Thus, they are expected to identify areas of shared understanding for cooperation.

Prospects for North Korea-China Relations and its Implications

It is unlikely that China would increase economic cooperation with North Korea in violation of international sanctions or acquiesce North Korea’s 7th nuclear test.

In order to build the necessary groundwork for the ‘audacious plan,’ South Korea should take the lead in managing the Korean Peninsula problem by promoting cooperation with China based on the shared perception of peace and prosperity of the Korean Peninsula while concurrently improving the effectiveness of the ‘plan.’