[Asan Plenum 2015] PS4 – “Korean Peninsula: The End Game?”

Panel: Korean Peninsula: The End Game?
Date/Time: April 29, 2015 / 15:00-16:15

Moderator: David Sanger, The New York Times

Speakers:
Chun Yungwoo, The Asan Institute for Policy Studies
Sven Jurschewsky, Foreign Service Officer, Canada (ret.)
Sydney Seiler, U.S. Department of State
Yamaguchi Noboru, International University of Japan
Zhang Tuosheng, China Foundation for International Strategic Studies

Panel Description

This year marks 70 years since the Korean peninsula was divided. While the rest of the Communist bloc long ago collapsed or took the path of reform, North Korea has become a byword for entrenched totalitarianism and misery. Kim Jong Un presides over a nuclear-armed, failed state that engages in political genocide at home and clandestine attacks abroad. Meanwhile, South Korea has become one of the world’s most prosperous, vibrant democracies. Even as Koreans on both sides yearn for unification, that day seems farther away than ever. The U.S. wields significant influence in shaping the contours of inter-Korean relations. American support for dialogue or sanctions, nuclear non-proliferation or disarmament, and human rights or stable relations vis-à-vis North Korea are all central questions. Can American power and influence still ensure peace, stability, and bring about eventual unification on the Korean peninsula?