Dream of Korean unification splitting apart

An article by Foreign Policy argues that the dream of Korean unification, once a shared aspiration across the peninsula, now appears increasingly fragmented. In a recent address, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol emphasized the need for a "unified, free, and democratic nation," highlighting the ongoing struggle for North Korean freedoms. The analysis says the vision starkly contrasts with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's declaration that unification is no longer viable, signalling a significant shift in Pyongyang's stance. As the two Koreas navigate this complex landscape, their divergent perspectives on unification reflect deeper political tensions and historical grievances.

The article notes that currently, the two Koreas stand at a complex juncture regarding unification. While Seoul's position appears peaceful, Pyongyang's rhetoric seems aggressive. However, North Korea's stance might imply a willingness to coexist as separate states, whereas South Korea's push for a unified democracy could be perceived by the North as a challenge to the legitimacy of Kim's regime, potentially inciting dissent among North Koreans.

Since the division of Korea in the late 1940s, both governments have aimed for reunification. Historically, South Korea's leadership viewed unification as a duty, while North Korea sought to incite revolution in the South. The end of the Cold War opened avenues for dialogue, culminating in the 2000 Joint Declaration, where both sides committed to peaceful unification through a confederation model.

According to the article, Kim Jong Un's recent announcement, which denounced unification, marks a significant shift. He ordered the demolition of the Arch of Reunification and directed the removal of unification goals from the North Korean constitution, signalling a definitive break from any aspirations for reunification.

This development has raised concerns and confusion. Some analysts suggest that Pyongyang now sees Seoul not as a potential partner but as an adversary to be dominated. However, if North Korea truly intended to subjugate the South, advocating for unification might be more logical than outright rejection. Others propose that this stance may serve to justify the use of nuclear weapons against South Korea, although such an action could lead to catastrophic consequences for Kim's regime.

A more plausible interpretation is that Pyongyang acknowledges it has lost the "unification competition," given its economic, diplomatic, and cultural disadvantages compared to the South, which are increasingly recognized by North Koreans due to the pervasive influence of South Korean pop culture. This awareness breeds dissatisfaction with their leadership.

Consequently, Kim's current approach communicates two key messages: domestically, it asserts that South Koreans are no longer compatriots, while internationally, it suggests an acceptance of distinct political systems and a call for non-interference.

In contrast, Yoon's vision for the peninsula may be seen by Pyongyang as a push for the North's absorption into the South. Unlike the collaborative spirit of the 2000 Joint Declaration, Yoon's approach promotes North Korean democratization, which would likely require regime change. He has committed to supporting civic groups in North Korea and increasing access to external information, aiming to enlighten North Koreans about the realities of their regime.

Yoon emphasized that if North Koreans recognize that freedom-based unification is the path to improving their lives, they will actively support this vision.