The
Way of Peace for Korea
Today, we know that there has been considerable economic gap
between north korea and south korea. The economic gap can be greatly affected
by the economic policies of each Korea. Then, why do we need to look at the
economic aspects? Because the economy is the main element that can affect a
country. In fact, the rate of progress of a country is also assessed from the
economic aspect. In the liberal view, the economy is an important factor and
can move a country to do a collaboration. If cooperation can be woven properly,
it will realize a peace.
Before discussing further, I would like to say that the discussion
on the way of peace for Korea is fairly interesting. Although both Korea is
very difficult to unite because of differences in ideology and system of
government, but did not rule out the establishment the way of peace for both korea through
economic cooperation.
After reading several articles, I know little more about the
circumstances that complicate the relationship of cooperation between north
korea and south korea. In my opinion, there are two very important points in
this regard that leader policy and economic conditions.
We know that the former South Korean president Kim Dae Jung has
sparked a political of sunshine policy that helps the economic development of
North Korea. Because at that time, the level of economic development of North
Korea is very much different from South Korea. This is due to two factors : the
collapse of the eastern block and North Korea leader policy that emphasizes the
military aspects rather than economic. It can be seen from the development of
the North Korea military is faster than the economic development. Although
North Korea is very rich in natural resources, the country is not too develop
it. As a result, the development of the North Korea economy becomes sluggish
and dependent on Chinese imports.
Seeing that economic condition of North Korea increasingly worse,
Kim De Jung had the opportunity to realize the sunshine policy. Due to
establish good relations with North Korea, it can not be done by force
(military) but through economic assistance. The policy was welcomed by North
Korean leader Kim Jong Il. Some of the assistance provided South Korea is
giving 500 head of cattle, the opening of Mount Geumgang tour program, and
release the project of Gaesung industrial complex. The collaboration led to a
meeting between the two Korea leaders, Kim Dae Jung and Kim Jung Il on June 13,
2000.
Reunification through a sunshine policy could eventually be
achieved during the reign of Kim Dae Jung. Both Korea for the first time gather
in a KTT meeting since the Korea peninsula was divided in two. The policy is
considered as a good start to begin the cooperation of both Korea.
Then, what about the economic development in the reign of Kim Jong
Un? As the heir to Kim Jong Il, he continued the policy of his father and still
continue to prioritize the military. Earlier, Kim Il Sung (Kim Jong Un's
grandfather) taught a doctrine is not to particularly care with economic
problems. If a leader is busy dealing with the economic problems then he will
not be able to handle the party and the military properly. North Korea leaders
assess the progress of a country from the force of political power, military,
and nuclear. This is the doctrine of the Kim dynasty continues to this day.
Thus, in the North Korean education system, the man are trained to be good in
military and woman are taught business and economics. Because of these
factors, the North Korea is more
prevalent in military and nuclear fields, in contrast to the South Korea is
more prominent in economic field. Although the economic development of North
Korea more advanced than before, but still not able to match South Korea.
After the death of Kim Jong Il, Korea ties is cold back. Coupled
with the rise of Lee Myung Bak as President of South Korea. Lee Myung Bak
assessed conservatively because of policies that worsen relations with North
Korea. Lee Myung Bak policies are formed a security force (peace keeping force)
and replace some of the ministers in charge of relations with North Korea. It
can be seen that President Lee further highlight military aspects than the
aspects of cooperation as was done by previous leaders. Lee considers policies
that he did was right. The North Korea's attitude which according to Lee to
watch out for is the absence of a reciprocal visit of Kim Jong Il and remain on
going nuclear program. Thus, the border defense began arguing again. In
addition, failure of the inter-Korea trade which caused by the policy of Lee
Myung Bak lead to many of Chinese companies in North Korea.
As a result of Lee Myung Bak's policy, many parties are concerned
about the future of both Korea's reunification. Chung-in Moon also contributed
to criticize it. According to him, what was done by president Lee would only
worsen relations between the two Korea.
I strongly agree with what was delivered by prof. Chung-in Moon.
President Lee should continue the sunshine policy and food aid. And steps
should be taken by President Lee are the non-military approach and continue to
cooperation with North Korea. I think, it would be more profitable for both
Korea.
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