Korean unification: problems and solutions

Abstract

The division of North and South Korea since World War II has been solidified by continuing hostility and confrontation. The growing heterogeneity of the two political systems constitutes a serious obstacle to national unification. The present hostile and confrontational South-North relations must be replaced with an amicable and cooperative relationship. This thesis attempts to ascertain the unification policies of South and North Korea in order to project the future relations of the two countries. For this purpose, the study examines the inter-dependence between international and domestic politics in shaping the two Koreas' unification policies and tries to illuminate the major factors contributing to changing tactics and strategies in the quest for unification. The North and South Koreans have pursued diametrically opposed unification policies. The North Korean regime's ultimate aim has been to overthrow the government of South Korea and to reunify the peninsula under communist rule. On the other hand, the unification policy of South Korea has always called for a step-by-step approach, beginning with the recurring of a lasting peace, the easing of tension, and the restoration of trust, thereby building the foundations of national unification.