The Peace Regime and Reunification: Antagonism or “Conditio Sine Qua Non”? A Functionalist Approach

Abstract

In discussing the issue of the peaceful coexistence and eventual reunification of the two Koreas, most of the literature stresses the importance of a peace regime for the Korean peninsula, which will eventually lead to reunification. However, the relationship between a peace regime and the objective of reunification has remained rather obscure. This article explores the possibilities and means which should be included in a peace regime so that it will effectively improve the chances for reunification, instead of merely maintaining the status quo. The article contends that, beside the conclusion of such a peace regime in a visible spirit of reunification, it is of utmost importance that a peace regime deals with common policies, which might prove helpful for a reunification process. This includes policies that will trigger economic and cultural exchanges between the two Koreas, thereby overcoming the current mutual isolation. Consequently, the North Korean economy could be strengthened and the North Korean population could be gradually prepared for the cultural shock, which will inexorably be a major problem in any reunification process. Additionally, it would be advantageous if the peace regime contains provisions which will ensure that further negotiations about intensifying inter-Korean cooperation will take place.