Inter-Korean Relations: Political Role of Regional Powers

In: Mirovaja ėkonomika i meždunarodnye otnošenija: MĖMO, Heft 2, S. 83-91

Abstract

Missile launches and nuclear tests by DPRK in 2013 undermined inter-Korean cooperation and regional stability. The primary purpose of these activities was to strengthen legitimacy of Kim Jong Un's administration. South Korean president Park Geun-Hye's trustpolitik policy focused on improving mutual understanding and developing step-by-step inter-Korean cooperation. Regional powers jointly opposed North Korea's missile and nuclear programs, but failed to elaborate common understanding on policies to promote security in the Korean peninsula as well as on prospects for the unification of Korea.