[Global NK Newsletter] Challenges from Russia and North Korea, Unification Discourse, NK Update
2022-06-07
May 30, 2022
[Global NK Interview] Richard K. Betts on the Russia-Ukraine War and Its Implications for East Asian Geopolitics
In this interview, Dr. Richard K. Betts, Leo A. Shifrin Professor of War and Peace Studies at Columbia University, discusses the implications of the Russia-Ukraine War on the global security environment and pressing security threats in Northeast Asia. Dr. Betts states that the ongoing Ukraine War, with no end in sight, has been a test for military and economic theories of coercion. He draws parallels between North Korea and Russia, claiming that both countries have observed the potential danger of nuclear weapons initiated by a personalist dictatorship. On China-Russia relations, he states that China lies in an “awkward position” and can either help Russia economically without doing so militarily, or help militarily as well in secretive ways.
Jaeyoung Hur, Assistant
Professor at the Global Leaders College in Yonsei University, explains and
evaluates the three dominant types of unification discourse (nationalistic,
peace-centric, and pragmatic) in Korea and suggests an alternative model for
unification. The author argues that discourse should be centered on a national
consensus concerning the method, cost, and taxation on unification.
Hyun Chul
Shim, M.A. Candidate at Seoul National University, discusses the 110th Day of
the Sun, North Korea’s 12th missile test, and the 90th anniversary of the
Korean People’s Army and reviews the international community’s response to
Pyongyang’s actions.
