Korean reunification : the implications for regional security

Abstract

Korean reunification is one of the most critical issues of the post-Cold War era, not only for the Korean peninsula, but also for regional security. This study analyzes Korean reunification in the context of Northeast Asian and Northern Pacific regional security. A systemic framework is utilized as an analytical tool to examine the motivations of states with interests in the region. The study concludes that an incremental functional approach would be the most efficient and effective way to achieve Korean unification while simultaneously strengthening regional security. A stable process of unification would contribute not only to Korea's future, but also to regional and global peace, prosperity and democracy.