North Korean Foreign Policy

During the campaign, Obama received much attention for his comments that he would be willing to talk to any nation, even -- perhaps especially -- ones typically viewed as aggressive towards the United States, without any preconditions. He included North Korea in this blanket statement, and his immediate and apparently total willingness to enter into negotiations marks a radical departure from the attitude of the current administration.

Under President Bush, no negotiations were held with what was considered to be the rogue state of North Korea until 2006, when that country's underground detonation of a nuclear device forced Bush to move to the negotiating table (Beck 2008, par. 2). Obama's foreign policy, though as yet vaguely stated, is likely to include even more vigorous and open negotiations. He is also likely to be more receptive to South Korea's stated desire and intention to open North Korea in an attempt to raise the income and standard of living in the totalitarian country. Bush, on the other hand, has proven time and again that his foreign policy consists of refusing to deal with countries and leaders who do not follow the United States' lead in any way but militarily or through economic sanctions. This policy has led to an increasingly negative view of this country abroad, as well as likely increased the danger presented by unstable regimes like that in operation in North Korea.

The changes that are likely to occur after Obama's inauguration are difficult to predict. As mentioned above, an increase in negotiations and the possibility of more concessions on the part of the United States, at least in terms of aid, are likely to be seen. By appointing the more hawkish Hillary Clinton to the position of Secretary of State, however, Obama may be signaling that is approach will be hard-lined than has previously been believed (Beck 2008, par. 5). Only time will tell, of course, although North Korea's announcement that they have discontinued their nuclear weapons research is encouraging place at which to begin the historical negotiations.

References

Beck, Peter M. 2008. "Obama and North Korea: The Road Ahead." Policy Forum Onine. Nautilus Institute. 3 December 2008. Accessed 8 December 2008. http://www.nautilus.org/fora/security/08092Beck.html