Inter-Korean Relations: Factors and Prospects

The relations between South Korea and North were improved in 2018 on the basis of Sunshine policy ideational platform inter-Korean agreements reached two countries under progressive administrations Kim Dae-jung 2000 Roh Moohyun 2007. However, had been at a lull since US-North summit Hanoi February 2019 despite intentions parties to develop diverse forms cooperation. After that, month June saw severe deterioration Inter-Korean relations. aim this article is analyze Korean policies governments from 1998 2020 as well explain reasons behind Seoul’s inability make progress dialogue with Pyongyang. Korea’s prioritizing its ties United States increased dependence main reason stagnation Under international regime sanctions against DPRK, Moon Jae-In has failed put into practice, for instance, re-open Kaesong Industrial Complex Mount Kumgang tourism zone. fact that economic cooperation was actually still linked denuclearization DPRK also negative impact prospects maintaining positive dynamics exacerbation showed absence practical continuing deadlock negotiations nuclear issue, Pyongyang not interested normalizing Seoul it can concentrate States. At same time, intensifying confrontation China Asia-Pacific region conducive political settlement Peninsula issue potentially lead an aggravation