September 2014: Two Good Opportunities, But No Big Meetings in Inter-Korean Relations
In September, there were two chances for North and South Korea to have high-level meetings, yet they were unable to take advantage of those opportunities.
August 2014: Signals, but Any Connections in Inter-Korean Relations?
As is often the case in dealing with North Korea, the ability to create and sustain connections from these potential signals will be key for actual progress in inter-Korean relations.
Pope Francis in South Korea: Addressing Issues with Hope and Religious Freedom
With his first visit to Korea and Asia, it is clear that Pope Francis wanted to address three key issues that have been specifically on the minds of the Korean people.
June 2014: Smaller Meetings, But Bigger Fish to Fry in Inter-Korean Relations
Similar to previous months, inter-Korean relations remained tense, especially in the West Sea.
The Rationale for a German Firm’s Investment in the Kaesong Industrial Complex
This will make Groz-Beckert the second foreign investment in Kaesong and the first since the complex reopened last fall.
May 2014: Shelling, Testing, and Challenging Inter-Korean Relations
Just as April is historically one of the most contentious months for inter-Korean relations, the West Sea and the Northern Limit Line (NLL) have been among the most contentious areas in inter-Korean relations.
April 2014: Provocative Rhetoric & Shelling in Inter-Korean Relations
April is often a contentious month for inter-Korean relations. With joint and combined military exercises, along with anniversaries and holidays, there are plenty of opportunities for provocations and hateful rhetoric. April 2014 was no different.
North Korea Cancels Family Visits and Tries to Play the Blame Game
If North Korea is attempting to regain some leverage in inter-Korean talks by stalling on family visits, the South Korean government could again face a difficult decision on whether trust can be built up with North Korea.
The Impact of Kaesong’s Suspension on Korean Companies & South Korea-India Economic Connections
The fear that North Korea’s suspension of activities at the Kaesong Industrial Complex would have broader implications began to materialize last week when Daewha Fuel Pump Industrial Ltd. announced it failed to deliver parts in time to its Indian customer. Other companies are beginning to publicize their setbacks as well.
Why North Korea Isn’t Interested in Economic Reform
By Troy Stangarone As often happens with North Korea, there have recently been suggestions that the regime may be interested in engaging in economic reforms….