Monograph

[Sejong Global Series-3] Maintaining Peace on the Korean Peninsula: Sejong-USIP-NCNK Conference Report

Date 2024-03-19 View 2,622

(Diplomacy) Analyze the relationship between reunification and peaceful coexistence, evaluate past negotiations with North Korea, and analyze the dilemma facing the U.S. and North Korean policy to recommend `1) the need for active diplomacy and unilateral action, 2) confidence and security-building measures, 3) high-level four-party talks, 4) assurance issues in deterrence strategy, and 5) addressing North Korea's core needs 

 

(Security) Discussed the expanding role of North Korea's nuclear weapons, the limits and side effects of deterrence, the qualitative issues of deterrence and crisis, and South Korea's nuclear weapons aspirations and geopolitical implications. Policy recommendations included 1) maintaining deterrence and reducing military tensions simultaneously, 2) a three-stage plan for peaceful coexistence, and 3) differentiating approaches based on North Korea's willingness to negotiate. 

 

(Economic) Analyzes the current status of North Korea's economy, trade resumption and border opening, the efficacy and limitations of sanctions as leverage, the North Korean cryptocurrency issue, and key questions regarding economic engagement with North Korea. Policy recommendations include 1) new economic engagement to turn the tide, 2) specific measures to engage North Korea, 3) climate change as a pathway for engagement, and 4) conditions for improving inter-Korean relations. 

 

(Human Rights) Discusses the prioritization of human rights policies in North Korea, the lack of Western media outlets in North Korea, differing views on information campaigns, and the limits and possibilities of humanitarian assistance policy recommendations including 1) balancing sanctions and humanitarian assistance, 2) change through engagement, 3) a gradual strategic approach to human rights in North Korea, 4) aid to establish capitalism in North Korea, and 5) engagement with North Korea abroad.