이익균형 관점으로 본 개성공단사업의 지속성

Abstract

This article is an effort to understand how Gaeseong Industrial Complex (GIC), an economic collaboration between South and North Korea, not only survived conflicts and tensions between two Koreas for almost a decade, but also steadily grew in number of employees, operating firms, and revenue. The uniqueness of its success can be explained when the Balance of Interests Theory is applied to the case of GIC. There are three points to be satisfied in order to achieve the balance of interests for both parties involved; coinciding interests, nonintersecting interests, and mutually exclusive interests. First, the economic boost GIC brought to North Korea rewarded both Koreas by providing jobs and hard currency for North Korea. This also reduced the amount of expenses going into reunification efforts for South Korea. The economic benefits here are one example of fulfilling the coinciding interests. Secondly, the GIC leaves the door open for North Korea for international trade. Lee Myung-Bak’s government also sees an opportunity to test whether it is possible to establish an open and honest relationship with North Korea. The transparency and trust will pave the way for reunification. Thirdly, in discussion of mutually exclusive interests, the GIC can impose a threat to both Koreas. Among them, the capitalist influence has the potential to disrupt long-standing communist system in North Korea. Despite these issues, two Koreas seem to agree on the fact that benefits outweigh potential harm. It is clear that the balance of interest for two sides should be maintained in order to succeed. In this perspective, the GIC will provide a gauge for future projects.