Korea and U.S. Security Strategy: A Time for Change
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to examine the US security strategy in Northeast Asia in the post-Korean Armistice period. Although the United States has maintained a steadfast alliance with the Republic of Korea since the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement in 1953, the decision by the United States to actively engage North Korea in direct dialogue has created the potential for increasing divergence of interest within the alliance. The United States is concerned with the nuclear proliferation issue while the Republic of Korea is concerned with being recognized as a principal party to any peace settlement. The American military's interest in maintaining the Armistice and the evolution of the Korean peace process constrain the policy options for US involvement. Despite several initiatives, there remain fundamental differences between North and South Korea that prevent an effective peace regime on the peninsula. What role should the US play in the peace process? What are the US security interests in Northeast Asia that need to be maintained in a post-Armistice period? How does US involvement in implementing the Agreed Framework with North Korea and the Four Party Peace Talks impact the viability of the U.S.-ROK security alliance? The paper will attempt to develop a strategy for ensuring American interests are maintained through the transition to peace and recommend ways to enhance the role of the security alliance in the context of preserving American regional interests in the post-Armistice era.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA399251
Entities
People
- Carl W. Baker
Organizations
- Air War College