The Peninsula
The Peninsula blog is a project of the Korea Economic Institute. It is designed to provide a wide ranging forum for discussion of the foreign policy, economic, and social issues that impact the Korean peninsula.
How the “Plus” Factor in South Korea’s New Southern Policy Plus Can Ensure Sustainability
Sea Young (Sarah) Kim
September 9, 2021
The New Southern Policy Plus (NSP Plus) was announced by President Moon Jae-in at the 21st ASEAN-ROK Summit on November 12, 2020. While maintaining emphasis on economic partnerships, the NSP…
Opportunities and Pitfalls of an End of War Declaration for Korea
Terrence Matsuo
September 2, 2021
While an end of war declaration poses some opportunities for cooperation between the U.S. and North Korea, there are also reasons why it may not accomplish its stated aims.
Lift or Extend Travel Ban for U.S. Citizens to North Korea?
Robert King
September 1, 2021
In 2017, the United States authorized a travel ban prohibiting U.S. citizens from traveling “into, through or in North Korea. Will it be renewed?
Enigmatic Foreign Ministry Article Accuses U.S. of “Sinister Political Purpose” in Providing Humanitarian Aid
Robert King
July 16, 2021
A recent article from North Korea on U.S. humanitarian aid—despite the discussion of the “sinister political purpose” of aid—may be a first cautious outreach.
Korean Interests in Peace and Stability Around the Taiwan Strait
Terrence Matsuo
June 25, 2021
While Korea has been reluctant to sign on to initiatives that challenge China, experts say it will be harder for Seoul to continue making that choice.
How South Korea Can Upgrade its Strategic Partnership with Vietnam
Sea Young (Sarah) Kim
June 7, 2021
South Korea and Vietnam are both regional middle powers caught by strategic dilemmas amid intensifying U.S.-China competition.
U.S.-Japan-Korea Trilateralism after the Biden-Moon Summit
June 4, 2021
As policymakers muddle through the continued freeze in Korea-Japan relations, the U.S. should not have too high expectations for trilateral cooperation.
The Biden-Moon Summit: Reaffirming Common Ties and Goals, and Delicately Dancing Around North Korea Issues
Robert King
June 2, 2021
Differences remain between the United States and South Korea on engagement with the North, particularly on pressing it on human rights abuses.