Initial Thoughts on the Trump-Kim Summit
After watching the first meeting between President Donald Trump and Chairman Kim Jong Un, KEI staff members share some of the things that stood out to them.
Trump Cancels Summit and Tells Kim “Call Me, Maybe”
In his letter to Kim Jong-un, President Trump left the door open to meet in the future, and North Korea responded by leaving the door open as well.
Is Beijing Beginning to Ease the THAAD Boycott?
The number of Chinese tourists arriving in South Korea in March and April has increased year-on-year for the first time since February 2017.
North Korea Must Address Nuclear Safety and Security as it Discusses Curbing its Nuclear Weapons Program
Ahead of negotiations, the North Korean government can boost their credibility by proactively addressing nuclear safety and security.
February 23 Sanctions Announcement: Maximizing Maximum Pressure
The Trump Administration announced a new set of economic sanctions against North Korea, which officials have described as the “largest ever tranche.”
The Economics of Why a “Bloody Nose” is at Odds with “Maximum Pressure”
Even in the best-case scenario, a “bloody nose” attack on North Korea would likely undermine “maximum pressure” for economic reasons.
The North Korea Human Rights Dimension in the State of the Union
North Korea figured prominently in President Trump’s January 30, 2018, State of the Union message – remarkably so on human rights.
Beijing’s Economic War on Pyongyang
Beijing conducting economic “war” on Pyongyang might be a little strong, but I think everyone would agree it’s at least a fierce and growing skirmish.
South Korean Losses from China’s THAAD Retaliation Continue to Grow
China and South Korea reached an agreement in November to restore normal economic relations. That no longer appears to be the case.
A North Korean Thaw for the Winter Olympics?
While few observers doubt the significance of the Olympics agreement, many disagree about what it will mean for the future of inter-Korean relations.