Unification costs for Korea and the Korean peninsula

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Authors
Lee, Donggun
Subjects
Korean unification
Korean peninsula
North Korean economy
Advisors
Looney, Robert E.
Date of Issue
2015-12
Date
Dec-15
Publisher
Monterey, California: Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This research begins with two questions: Can the government of South Korea (SK) overcome the economic burden of Korean unification, and what will the effects of reunification be on theUnited States and China? This thesis focuses on manufacturing, the food industry, and infrastructure, since these three sectors will be the most important expenditures of a unified Korean government. To develop North Korea’s (NK’s) economy, the development of these three elements is essential; however, private capital and foreign investment will not come easily, because NK is certain to face political and economic instability in the early stages of unification. By combining SK’s technology and NK’s cheap labor, Korean unification might start a positive ripple effect throughout the global economy. In addition, the elimination of NK’s weapons of mass destruction and nuclear programs will contribute to world peace. In consideration of these effects of Korean unification, this thesis explores the benefits of unification for the two most influential countries in the process: theUnited States and China. The Koreas must persuade powerful countries that have an interest in Korea by conveying the positive effects of unification.
Type
Thesis
Description
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Department
National Security Affairs
National Security Affairs
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Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
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