The article discusses the transition from Moon Jae-in's presidency to Yoon Suk-yeol's in South Korea, highlighting the stagnant inter-Korean relations and the challenges posed by North Korea's missile tests and nuclear threats. It covers the conservative Yoon's lack of political experience and his firm stance against North Korea, contrasting with Moon's more conciliatory approach. The article also touches on the potential impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on the Korean Peninsula and the implications of Yoon's inauguration speech, which offered dialogue and economic incentives to North Korea for denuclearization. Additionally, it mentions the outbreak of COVID-19 in North Korea and the South's offer of vaccine aid.

Kim Jong-un has vowed that North Korea will continue to stockpile nuclear weapons and has threatened the US with 'final doom.' The latest missile test has escalated tensions, with North Korea's state media asserting the need for nuclear deterrence. The UN Security Council, including China and Russia, condemned the missile launch, while US President Donald Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-in have both issued strong responses. Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and UK Prime Minister Theresa May have also condemned North Korea's actions, with May discussing the crisis during her trade mission to Japan. The situation has raised fears of a potential conflict, with North Korea's missile tests seen as a direct threat to regional stability.

In mid-2023, tensions between North and South Korea escalated further, with North Korea's nuclear threats intensifying in response to US-ROK military exercises and the visit of a US nuclear-armed submarine. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol institutionalized a hardline stance by repurposing the Ministry of Unification to focus on exposing North Korea's human rights abuses rather than fostering cooperation. North Korea's attempts to launch military reconnaissance satellites failed, while its missile program showed significant advancements. The article also discusses the replacement of South Korea's Unification Minister and the implications of these changes for inter-Korean relations, highlighting the increasingly hostile rhetoric and actions from both sides.

Korea's leaders presented contrasting New Year addresses, with Moon Jae-in focusing on peace efforts and Kim Jong Un remaining silent on South Korea and the US while testing hypersonic missiles. Moon's persistent push for a peace declaration faces skepticism from both Washington and Pyongyang. As Moon's term ends, his successor's approach to inter-Korean relations remains uncertain, with the liberal candidate Lee Jae-myung leading the polls. The article evaluates Moon's 'nordpolitik,' highlighting the challenges and limited progress in inter-Korean relations, and discusses the broader geopolitical implications involving the US and China.

Aidan Foster-Carter critiques South Korean President Moon Jae-in's approach to diplomacy with North Korea, describing it as one-sided and ineffective. The article highlights a Japanese diplomat's vulgar metaphor to emphasize the awkwardness and challenges faced by South Korea in its diplomatic efforts.

Inter-Korean relations remain strained with little progress, as North Korea continues to ignore or insult South Korea's efforts for engagement. The Moon Jae-in administration faces criticism for its handling of North Korea, including a controversial nuclear power plant plan and a propaganda balloon ban. Military tensions persist, with both Koreas enhancing their arsenals. Human rights issues in North Korea are downplayed by the South Korean government, leading to domestic and international criticism. Despite these challenges, Moon's government remains committed to engagement, though time is running out as his term nears its end.

North Korea has made significant reforestation efforts in urban and tourist areas like Pyongyang, the Kaesong Industrial Complex, and the Mt. Kumgang International Tourism Zone, while rural and mountainous regions continue to suffer from deforestation. The reforestation is part of a broader environmental beautification initiative, possibly aimed at high-ranking officials and foreign tourists. However, these efforts have led to tensions with rural residents who lose arable land for farming. To sustain reforestation, North Korea needs to address food and energy supply issues for rural communities to prevent further reclamation of land for private use or fuel.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's new economic strategy aims to increase self-sufficiency, consolidate control over the economy, and reconfigure the state's relationship with private entrepreneurs. However, these objectives may conflict, especially given the country's fiscal constraints exacerbated by international sanctions. The strategy includes ambitious investment plans and tighter control over private sector activities, particularly targeting the donju, or 'money masters.' Historical cycles of liberalization and retrenchment in North Korea's economy highlight the challenges of balancing central control with market mechanisms. The article questions the feasibility of achieving these goals simultaneously, suggesting potential stagnation for the North Korean economy.

Kim Jong Un's report to the Korean Workers’ Party Congress emphasizes restoring state control over the North Korean economy and society. The report signals a potential rollback of semi-private economic activities and increased repression of foreign cultural influences. Kim's tenure has seen intensified crackdowns on smuggling and consumption of South Korean media, reflecting his broader agenda of social control. Despite early economic liberalization experiments, the state has consistently aimed to formalize and oversee private economic activities. The measures risk exacerbating economic difficulties for the civilian population dependent on market trade and private business.

Inter-Korean relations have deteriorated, marked by a tragic incident where a South Korean official was killed in North Korean waters. Despite apologies from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, the incident has cast doubt on the sincerity of North Korea's commitment to peace. South Korea's President Moon Jae-in remains optimistic, but the reality of the situation suggests a bleak outlook for renewed dialogue. North Korea continues to reject South Korean overtures for cooperation, and the recent ban on propaganda balloon launches across the DMZ by South Korea's ruling party has not improved relations. The Eighth Congress of the Workers' Party of Korea reaffirmed a hardline stance, with Kim Jong Un blaming South Korea for the stalled relations and demanding the South to control anti-reunification activities. The article suggests that prospects for inter-Korean relations in 2021 are not hopeful.

The idea of South Korea acting as a mediator between the US and North Korea is criticized as fundamentally flawed. With Joe Biden in office, the dynamics of US-South Korea relations and their approach to North Korea are expected to change. The author, Aidan Foster-Carter, argues against South Korea taking on this intermediary role.

Relations between North and South Korea deteriorated significantly over the summer, marked by North Korea's aggressive actions, including the destruction of the joint liaison office in Kaesong. Despite South Korea's attempts to engage and offer aid, North Korea remained uncooperative, citing COVID-19 concerns. The period also saw internal political shifts in South Korea, with new appointments in key security positions. The article highlights the ongoing challenges in inter-Korean relations, exacerbated by natural disasters and the global pandemic, and questions the effectiveness of South Korea's engagement strategy.

The article discusses the potential inclusion of South Korea in the Five Eyes (FVEY) intelligence-sharing alliance, which currently includes the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. This expansion aims to monitor activities in North Korea and China. South Korea's participation could enhance its intelligence capabilities and strengthen ties with democratic powers, but it faces challenges such as potential Chinese retaliation and ongoing tensions with Japan. The article highlights the strategic benefits and geopolitical implications of South Korea joining the FVEY Plus framework.

The article provides an American diplomat's perspective on the political dynamics between Thae Yong-ho and Lee In-young in South Korea. It argues that the public in South Korea is largely indifferent to the controversy, viewing Lee as a well-vetted politician. Thae's actions are seen as a strategic move to fill a leadership vacuum within the conservative party. The article also reflects on the historical context of student movements in South Korea and their stance on unification and democracy, contrasting it with the ideology of Juche. The influence of Catholicism on progressive politics in South Korea is also highlighted.

Inter-Korean relations remained stagnant in early 2020, with North Korea's lack of response to South Korea's outreach and refusal to cooperate on COVID-19. South Korea's President Moon Jae-in's party won a significant victory in parliamentary elections, while North Korea resumed missile tests. Kim Jong Un's temporary disappearance caused global speculation. The article discusses the implications of these events within the broader context of bilateral relationships in the Indo-Pacific and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The health status of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has raised global concerns due to his recent absence from public view and unconfirmed reports of cardiac surgery. Kim's lifestyle factors, including heavy smoking, obesity, and a family history of cardiovascular disease, significantly increase his health risks. Utilizing NASA's Astro-CHARM tool, hypothetical risk assessments suggest that Kim's cardiovascular risk could be mitigated with lifestyle changes and medical treatment. The article underscores the potential security implications of Kim's health for the Korean Peninsula.

The article examines the history and current state of the North Korea peace process, highlighting the longstanding nature of the nuclear crisis and the frequent shifts between diplomatic engagement and military tension. It underscores the challenges posed by regime changes in the U.S. and South Korea, the ideological divides in policy approaches, and the cunning of the Kim regime. The piece concludes that despite various efforts, no approach has succeeded in denuclearizing North Korea.

The article critiques the prevailing narratives around North Korea's diplomatic engagements from 2017 to 2019, arguing that Kim Jong-un has consistently outmaneuvered the US and South Korea. It highlights the shift from aggressive posturing in 2017 to unproductive summits in 2018, and finally to resumed missile tests and taunts in 2019. The author contends that the US and South Korea's strategies have been ineffective, with North Korea strengthening its position, particularly through improved relations with China. The piece is critical of the optimistic rhetoric from the US and South Korea, suggesting it is delusional given the lack of substantive progress.

North Korea has continued to distance itself from South Korea, ignoring Seoul's diplomatic efforts and reverting to missile tests. Despite this, South Korean President Moon Jae-in remains publicly optimistic. The departure of John Bolton from the White House may offer a chance for improved relations if the US offers sanctions relief. However, inter-Korean relations are currently secondary to US-DPRK ties. The article also discusses the lack of progress in sports cooperation for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the negative response from North Korea to South Korea's diplomatic overtures and military exercises. The tone of North Korean statements towards South Korea has become increasingly contemptuous.

The article discusses South Korean President Moon Jae-in's optimistic view that economic cooperation between South Korea (ROK) and North Korea (DPRK) could help South Korea catch up with Japan economically. It highlights the potential economic benefits of inter-Korean cooperation and reflects on the broader implications of such a strategy.

The article discusses the ongoing trade conflict between South Korea and Japan, highlighting the surprise nature of Japan's actions. It is the second part of a series by Aidan Foster-Carter.

Japan and South Korea are currently experiencing significant tensions, which could potentially benefit North Korea. The article is part of a series analyzing the ongoing trade dispute between the two nations.

The inter-Korean peace process that showed promise in 2018 has stalled in 2019, with North Korea severing almost all contacts with South Korea following the failed Kim-Trump summit in Hanoi. Kim Jong Un's missile launches in early May further strained relations, despite South Korean President Moon Jae-in's efforts to maintain dialogue. The article highlights the decline in inter-Korean cooperation across various sectors, including high-level talks, sports exchanges, and family reunions. Kim's dismissive attitude towards South Korea's mediation efforts and the resumption of missile testing have undermined Moon's peacemaking initiatives, leaving the future of North-South relations uncertain.

A South Korean journalist based in Japan, Cho Yun-yong, obtained a rare official document from North Korea, which is typically kept secret. The article criticizes North Korea's economic strategy, describing it as delusional and highlighting the secrecy surrounding its economic policies.

Following Kim Jong Un's April 12 address to the Supreme People’s Assembly, North Korean media has increased criticism of South Korea, shifting blame from the South Korean military to the authorities. This change indicates a deterioration in inter-Korean dialogue. Despite harsher rhetoric, North Korea has not declared relations with the South as irreparable, suggesting a willingness to keep dialogue open. Pyongyang's complaints center on the belief that reduced military exercises by the US and South Korea are attempts to circumvent agreements, including the US-DPRK Singapore statement.

On the anniversary of the first North-South summit between Kim Jong Un and Moon Jae-in, North Korea's decision to cold-shoulder South Korea is criticized as unfair and unwise. The article reflects on the high hopes raised by the initial meetings and the implications of the current diplomatic stance.

Aidan Foster-Carter is an honorary senior research fellow in Sociology and Modern Korea at Leeds University. He is also a freelance writer, consultant, and broadcaster who specializes in topics related to both North and South Korea. His work encompasses a range of activities including academic research, writing articles, providing consultancy services, and participating in broadcast discussions, all focused on the sociological aspects and modern developments of the Korean peninsula.

Aidan Foster-Carter is an honorary senior research fellow in Sociology and Modern Korea at Leeds University. He is also a freelance writer, consultant, and broadcaster who specializes in topics related to both North and South Korea. His work encompasses a range of activities including academic research, writing articles, providing consultancy services, and participating in broadcast discussions, all focused on the sociological aspects and modern developments of the Korean peninsula.

Recent claims that Kim Jong Un has taken on a new title as 'the supreme representative of all the Korean people' have sparked speculation that he is asserting leadership over the entire Korean Peninsula. However, this interpretation may be a misunderstanding. The phrase likely relates to North Korea's internal politics, signifying Kim's status within the DPRK's electoral system rather than hegemonic ambitions over South Korea. The article suggests that the choice of words is more about avoiding the oddity of the Supreme Leader representing a single constituency and less about an open challenge to South Korean President Moon Jae-in.

Kim Jong Un is preparing for his first summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, focusing on economic projects and North Korea's negotiating strategy. Russia seeks recognition as a key player in Korean affairs and aims to secure North Korean commitments to support its economic initiatives, such as the Trans-Siberian and Trans-Korean railway and gas pipeline. Both countries are likely to discuss ways to mitigate the impact of US and international sanctions on North Korea. The summit underscores Russia's desire to maintain a significant role in Northeast Asian security and diplomacy.

Kim Jong Un's New Year's address focused positively on DPRK-US relations, highlighting his commitment to negotiations with the US and expressing optimism for progress. He left open the possibility of a 'new way' to defend North Korea's sovereignty if the US continues sanctions and pressure. Kim did not mention the 'phase-by-phase' approach to denuclearization, instead suggesting faster progress if the US reciprocates North Korea's efforts. He affirmed his 'firm will' for complete denuclearization, though the term 'Korean Peninsula' was not directly linked to denuclearization in all English versions of his speech. Kim also emphasized the shift from the 'byungjin' policy to focusing on economic construction and subtly referenced economic reforms without overt mention.

Inter-Korean relations saw significant developments in 2018, marked by three summits and substantial agreements between North and South Korea. Despite symbolic progress, actual economic cooperation remains hindered by UN and US sanctions. The article highlights the importance of confidence-building measures, the challenges posed by ongoing cyber-attacks, and the cautious optimism for continued progress in 2019. Key figures include Kim Jong Un and Moon Jae-in, with the US playing a critical role in the sanctions regime. The article underscores the need for genuine commitment from North Korea to sustain the positive momentum.

The article discusses the anticipation surrounding Kim Jong Un's upcoming New Year address, reflecting on the previous year's developments in diplomacy and the potential implications for US-DPRK and inter-Korean relations. It provides context on the tradition of New Year speeches in North Korea, expectations for domestic policy announcements, and the potential for Kim to address international issues, particularly the stances of the US and South Korea. The article also speculates on the tone Kim might adopt and the possible content of his speech, including issues such as denuclearization, sanctions, and human rights.

The article responds to Mr. Katzeff Silberstein's argument that North Korea can afford to meet its humanitarian needs but chooses not to. It acknowledges the logic in his argument but emphasizes that many governments fail to care for their vulnerable populations despite having the resources. The article argues that withholding aid in hopes of changing government behavior is unjust and highlights the plight of North Korea's voiceless, hungry, and medically underserved population. It also points out that even countries with higher per capita GDP receive significant humanitarian aid.

Kim Jong Un has been working on a three-stage plan to reshape his international image, often underestimated by the global community. This article is part of a series analyzing the current state of affairs with North Korea, emphasizing Kim's strategic diplomatic efforts.

Kim Jong Un has been significantly underestimated by the world, as recent events have shown. The term 'misunderestimated,' popularized by George W Bush, aptly describes the global misjudgment of Kim Jong Un's capabilities and actions.

Kim Jong Un focused on consolidating power internally by reining in the Korean People's Army, purging rivals, and restoring the Party's pre-eminence during his first four years in power. From 2016, he shifted his attention to securing North Korea's external position through a series of nuclear and ICBM tests, which solidified the country's defenses but escalated global tensions.

An authoritative-level article in Rodong Sinmun on September 15 has reasserted North Korea's commitment to a new relationship with the US and the denuclearization process. The article criticizes US conservative politicians and possibly internal opponents, while supporting Kim Jong Un's position on peace and denuclearization. It suggests that despite critical voices, the DPRK-US relationship is progressing on a new historic track, with a positive portrayal of President Trump and an open stance on the timing of an end of war declaration.

Three of Asia’s enduring flashpoints, including the division of Korea, remain unresolved and potentially explosive. However, recent developments on the Korean Peninsula have been unexpectedly positive. Kim Jong Un, who had not engaged in international diplomacy for six years, has dramatically shifted his approach in 2018, culminating in a historic summit with Donald Trump in Singapore. This marks a significant change in North Korea's diplomatic stance, moving away from its 'hermit kingdom' image.

The article discusses the temporary easing of tensions on the Korean Peninsula during the 23rd Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea. Despite the symbolic unity displayed, such as the joint march of North and South Korean athletes and the presence of North Korean officials and performers, the author, Aidan Foster-Carter, cautions that this is not a sign of lasting peace. He notes that similar gestures have occurred in the past without leading to significant change. The article emphasizes that the underlying issues, particularly North Korea's weapons program, remain unresolved and that the resumption of US-South Korea military exercises after the Olympics could reignite tensions.

Kim Jong-un is portrayed as a strategic leader rather than a reckless villain, with his actions aimed at self-defense and political maneuvering. The article criticizes Donald Trump's responses and emphasizes the importance of diplomacy over military action. It highlights the geopolitical complexities involving North Korea, the US, China, and Japan, and suggests that recognizing North Korea as a nuclear power may be an unpalatable but necessary step.

South Korea has made remarkable progress since its liberation in 1945, transforming from a war-torn and impoverished nation into an economic powerhouse and a robust democracy. Despite facing constant threats from North Korea, South Korea has achieved significant advancements in economics, politics, social welfare, and culture. The article highlights the country's journey and accomplishments, urging a balanced assessment of its progress compared to other nations.

Kim Jong-nam, the half-brother of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, was assassinated at Kuala Lumpur airport, with initial reports suggesting a poison-laced cloth was used. The article explores potential motives and suspects, primarily pointing to the North Korean regime and Kim Jong-un's possible involvement due to family dynamics and political threats. Historical references to other North Korean assassinations and purges are provided, along with speculation about China's role and the timing of the assassination. The piece concludes with the notion that Kim Jong-nam's death removes a potential threat to Kim Jong-un's rule.

Kim Jong-nam, the eldest son of Kim Jong-il and half-brother of Kim Jong-un, was assassinated at Kuala Lumpur airport. The article explores various theories and motives behind the assassination, primarily suspecting the North Korean regime and Kim Jong-un. It delves into Kim Jong-nam's background, his strained relationship with his half-brother, and the potential involvement of state power in his murder. The piece also considers the role of Chinese protection and the possibility of internal North Korean factions acting independently to gain favor with Kim Jong-un.

The article discusses Donald Trump's proposal to engage in dialogue with North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un, suggesting it could be a positive shift in US foreign policy. It criticizes the current and past US administrations for their ineffective approaches to North Korea, highlighting the need for imaginative diplomacy. The author argues that talking to adversaries is essential for understanding and potentially resolving conflicts, using historical examples to support this view. The article also emphasizes the importance of seizing diplomatic opportunities with North Korea, despite its challenging nature.

North Korea's recent threats, including a nuclear strike on Manhattan, have escalated tensions, prompting strong reactions from the US, South Korea, and even China. The US Congress passed new sanctions, and South Korea shut down the Kaesong industrial complex. Joint military exercises between the US and South Korea have intensified, raising concerns about potential escalation. The article questions whether backing North Korea into a corner is a wise strategy and suggests that a return to diplomacy is inevitable, despite the current icy outlook.

North Korea, officially the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), is notorious for its authoritarian regime under Kim Jong-un, who inherited power from his father Kim Jong-il in 2011. The country has a history of severe economic challenges, exacerbated by the collapse of Soviet aid in the 1990s and subsequent famines. Despite international aid, including significant contributions from the UN World Food Programme, the regime's nuclear ambitions have led to sanctions and further isolation. The DPRK's economy relies heavily on unofficial markets, and while the state no longer suppresses these markets, it does not support them either. Human rights abuses remain rampant, with many citizens covertly consuming South Korean media, revealing a stark contrast between the two Koreas. Despite predictions of collapse, the regime persists, with change likely needing to come from within.

Kim Young-sam, former president of South Korea, has passed away at the age of 87. He was a key figure in the country's struggle for democracy against military dictators from the 1960s to the 80s. Born on Geoje island, he was the youngest member of South Korea's National Assembly at 26 and was re-elected nine times. He opposed dictatorial regimes of Syngman Rhee, Park Chung-hee, and Chun Doo-hwan, enduring hardships such as a hunger strike and force-feeding. Kim's presidency from 1993 to 1998 saw the arrest of former presidents Chun and Roh for extortion, the dissolution of a suspect officers' association, and the country's entry into the OECD. However, his tenure was marred by an economic crisis that led to an IMF bailout. Kim's later years were marked by low public visibility and health issues. He is survived by his wife, Myung-soon, their five children, and five younger sisters.

The article discusses the latest crisis between North and South Korea, highlighting the restrained yet tense military exchanges and the ongoing high-level talks. It criticizes both North Korean leader Kim Jong-un for his unpredictability and South Korean President Park Geun-hye for her hardline stance. The Federation of Korean Industries' proposal for business cooperation is seen as a positive long-term solution. The article warns of the risks of miscalculation and the need for both Koreas to break the cycle of provocations and think long-term.

The article discusses the recent inter-Korean crisis and the ongoing talks between North and South Korea at Panmunjom. It highlights the rapid developments and the challenges of writing timely commentary on such dynamic events.

Lee Myung-bak, South Korea's former president, was known for his active presence and significant projects such as hosting the G-20 and the Four Rivers project during his tenure from 2008 to early 2013.

Cho Hyun-ah, former vice-president of Korean Air, faces severe personal and professional repercussions following the 'Nut Rage' incident. The article suggests that while her actions were undeniably wrong, the extent of her punishment may be excessive.

Yoo Byung-eun, South Korea's most wanted man, is being pursued by authorities for his alleged connection to Chonghaejin Marine, the company responsible for the Sewol ferry disaster that resulted in over 300 deaths. Despite not being formally charged, Yoo and his family have ignored summonses, prompting strong government action to track him down and seize assets. Yoo, who has a complex history involving multiple identities and a religious group, the Evangelical Baptist Church, has been trying to erase his online presence. The article delves into Yoo's past, including his involvement in a mass suicide scandal and his business ventures, highlighting the intertwining of his religious and corporate activities. The government's determination to apprehend Yoo is underscored, with the case raising questions about the intersection of faith, law, and individual responsibility.

North Korea's recent actions, including missile movements and nuclear tests, have heightened tensions with the United States and South Korea. Despite a temporary de-escalation, the situation remains volatile. North Korea's aggressive rhetoric and actions, such as closing the Kaesong Industrial Complex, contrast with its stated desire for economic development. The article explores the motivations behind North Korea's behavior, suggesting it may be a mix of internal power dynamics and external posturing. The international community, including the United Nations, continues to respond with sanctions and diplomatic efforts.

Kim Jong Un, North Korea's leader, is depicted as a dangerous and unpredictable figure with a penchant for luxury and a disregard for international relations. His recent actions, including threats of nuclear strikes and the scrapping of non-aggression pacts, have heightened tensions with South Korea and the US, raising fears of potential conflict. Despite his seemingly playful public persona, the article suggests Kim Jong Un's actions may be more than bluster, reflecting a readiness for battle and a need to assert his authority both domestically and internationally.

Aidan Foster-Carter recounts a humorous incident involving a cockroach in his hotel room during a security conference in Geneva. Despite the initial shock and the potential for outrage given the high cost of the room, he opts for a nonviolent approach to remove the cockroach. The next morning, the cockroach escapes, leaving him with no evidence but a funny story to share. He uses the experience as a metaphor in his conference speech to illustrate the difference between real threats and mere nuisances.

The article critically examines the prevailing notion that China can and will influence North Korea to curb its provocative actions. It argues that China has its own strategic interests in maintaining a relationship with North Korea and is unlikely to act decisively against it. The piece highlights the historical and current dynamics between China, North Korea, and other regional players like South Korea, Japan, and Russia. It suggests that China's support for North Korea is part of a broader strategy to prevent a unified Korea aligned with the United States, and that the international community needs to adjust its expectations and strategies accordingly.

North Korea, under Kim Jong-il's leadership, has historically manipulated foreign aid to support its military arsenal while suffering from man-made famines. Despite receiving substantial aid, Pyongyang's policies have led to stunted growth among its population and a rejection of foreign goods that do not align with its political narrative. The article highlights the absurdity of North Korea's rejection of South Korean aid due to political and aesthetic reasons, despite the desperate need of its people.

South Koreans appear to be more concerned with a fictional monster from a hit movie, 'Guimul', than the real threat posed by North Korea's missile program, as reported by the Institute of Foreign Affairs and National Security. The film, which has drawn a record audience, is based on an incident involving the U.S. military and has sparked environmental and anti-American sentiment. Meanwhile, the North Korean threat, including missile bases and a large arsenal aimed at South Korea and Japan, seems to be downplayed by the South Korean public, which holds a more favorable view of North Korea and China compared to the U.S. and Japan.

South Koreans are not showing fear towards North Korea's missile threat, despite a report from the Institute of Foreign Affairs and National Security indicating significant missile capabilities aimed at Japan and South Korea. Instead, South Koreans are flocking to cinemas to watch 'Guimul' ('The Host'), a monster movie about a mutant spawned by toxic fluid from an American military base, which has become a massive hit.

Despite rising tensions between the United States and North Korea over the latter's nuclear program, South Korean individuals and groups continue to provide humanitarian aid to North Korea. Kim Soon Kwon, a South Korean crop scientist nicknamed 'Dr. Corn', has been instrumental in breeding disease-resistant corn seeds and has been aiding North Korean farms since 1998. The 'sunshine' policy of South Korea's outgoing president, Kim Dae Jung, has facilitated such efforts. In December, South Korean groups sent $9 million worth of aid to North Korea, including winter clothing, medicines, and materials for a salmon hatchery.

Korea faces renewed tensions with North Korea's nuclear program, but South Korean crop scientist Kim Soon Kwon, known as 'Dr. Corn,' continues his humanitarian work by developing disease-resistant corn for famine-stricken North Korea. Under the 'sunshine' policy of outgoing South Korean President Kim Dae Jung, such cross-border aid is encouraged. In December, various South Korean groups, including the Ministry of Unification, Red Cross, and Korean Sharing Movement, sent significant aid to North Korea, contributing to grassroots efforts to foster healing and cooperation between the two Koreas.

South Korea and Japan, despite their historical rivalry and acrimony stemming from Japan's occupation of Korea, are co-hosting the soccer World Cup. The event has highlighted ongoing tensions, such as disputes over the order of names on tickets and deeper issues like Japan's handling of its wartime past, including the issue of 'comfort women' and revisionist textbooks. The article suggests that both nations have work to do in overcoming the past, with Japan needing to acknowledge its history more fully and Korea reassessing its attitudes towards former colonizers.

South Korean President Kim Dae Jung, once celebrated with a Nobel Peace Prize, now struggles with a low approval rating and is considered a lame duck. Despite initial economic successes and a groundbreaking summit with North Korea, economic growth is faltering, and conglomerates are resisting further reforms. Additionally, his 'sunshine' policy with North Korea faces criticism for lack of reciprocity, and the Bush administration's hardline stance has complicated diplomatic efforts.

South Korea is confronting its past with investigations into alleged atrocities during the Korean War, including the No Gun Ri massacre by U.S. troops and the mass execution of political prisoners at Taejon by South Korean military police. President Kim Dae Jung has authorized a probe into the 1948 Cheju uprising. The Associated Press's research on No Gun Ri has prompted a Pentagon inquiry and spurred South Koreans to reflect on their history. Historical accounts and media coverage have previously been censored or ignored, but recent efforts aim to bring these events to light.

President Kim Dae Jung of South Korea, despite his age, is embarking on a demanding visit to the United States, where he will deliver 26 speeches in nine days. Kim is celebrated for his moral stature, vision, and political acumen, standing out in a region often associated with negative news. He has consistently championed democracy, surviving multiple assassination attempts, and has shown remarkable forgiveness. Economically, Kim has initiated significant reforms to dismantle the old, corrupt Korea Inc., advocating for free markets, reduced government size, and increased foreign participation.

North Korea's recent threat to resume nuclear activity highlights the importance of the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO), a successful initiative that has defused nuclear tensions and fostered cooperation between North Korea, South Korea, Japan, and the United States. Despite its success, KEDO's future is jeopardized by public disagreements over funding among the involved nations. The Geneva agreement of 1994, which led to the creation of KEDO, has been instrumental in transforming the nuclear issue from a major risk to a hopeful prospect for the Korean Peninsula.