Easing international concerns over a unified Korea and regional benefits of Korean unification

This study analyzes the neighboring states’ interests, concerns, and benefits regarding Korean unification, in order to highlight the advantages and ease their concerns. By doing so, the study ultimately aims to provide implications necessary to create a more favorable international environment for Korean unification. Despite vague optimism on Korean unification and the end of the Cold War, not only has division persisted, but it is also yet premature to say that tensions have been completely alleviated. The problems on the Korean Peninsula will rearrange the structure of the Northeast Asian region, affecting issues such as North Korea’s nuclear pursuit and the Six-Party Talks. Making matters worse, traditional conflicts such as territorial disputes are intensifying in East Asia, and neighboring states are engaging themselves in political, economic, and military competition, creating a less than favorable environment for Korean unification. (The rest omitted)