Home › Resources › North Korea's Position in the World: U.S. and East Asia

North Korea's Position in the World: U.S. and East Asia

by About Japan Editors , November 16, 2009
Robert Carlin acknowledges the “harmony” in the American relationship with Japan and South Korea but warns that such alliances require constant adjustment because they are based on the self-interests of each state. He addresses China’s stake in the North Korean problem.

Were Japan and South Korea cut out of the negotiations between North Korea and the US?

Are China’s interests in the North Korean issue any different from South Korea or Japan? The United States? If so, how?

Why wouldn’t many Chinese officials want to grant US influence in Asia? Do you think the power and influence of states is a 0-sum game?

Why does Revere think that the Chinese are rethinking their North Korea relationship? What implications does this have for the US?

More clips and teaching questions from North Korea: Challenges for the US, Japan and South Korea

Nuclear Proliferation - Evans Revere argues that North Korea has changed its priorities towards security and the obtainment of nuclear weapons because it feels threatened by its neighbors and wants the recognition and diplomatic leverage associated with nuclear arms. Robert Carlin expresses his view that nuclear proliferation necessitates diplomacy.

Multilateral Negotiations - L. Gordon Flake argues in favor of multilateral negotiation with North Korea and emphasizes that the United States must act with the interests of its allies in mind.

Trilateral Cooperation - Evans Revere explains how trilateral cooperation with South Korea and Japan is at a peak after withering during the Bush administration.

Click here for the full webcast.

Click here for an overview of the webcast and background information.