Kim Jong-un's Triple Strategy: A Triad of People's Wellbeing First, Strengthening Self-Defense Power, and Dialogue 

Park Jong-Chul 

(pjc@kinu.or.kr) 

Professor, 

Daejeon University 

Abstract

Kim Jong-un's three speeches that were delivered between September and October had focused on domestic policy, strengthening national defense capabilities, and foreign- and inter-Korean- relations. Although each speech had different emphases, the speeches presented three strategies of economic development, self-defense enforcement, and holding conditional dialogues based on North Korea's people first ideology. 

A complex strategy is necessary to break the impasse in inter-Korean relations. First, it is urgent to adjust the procedures of how, when, and what to resume and discuss through inter-Korean channels. Second, comprehensive arms control and the implementation of the 9.19 inter-Korean military agreement must be discussed through inter-Korean military talks. Third, the Biden administration must take active measures such as adopting the declaration of the end of the war, providing humanitarian aid, and coordinating the ROK-U.S. joint military exercises. Fourth, China should consult with the International Olympic Committee to invite North Korea to participate and promote peace on the Korean Peninsula.