윤석열 정부의 통일·대북정책 검토와 과제: 국내 수준의 합의 도모와 성과 추구

Abstract

In this study I examine whether it is possible to make a breakthrough in improving North-South Korean relations in the current situation where North Korea’s nuclear capabilities have become unprecedentedly advanced and inter-Korean relations are strained. I then discuss the possible directions and tasks of the Korean unification and North Korea policy. I argue that it is necessary to acknowledge that there is virtually no royal road or plan to resolve inter-Korean relations and achieve North Korea’s denuclearization. And even under conditions where it is difficult to expect North Korea’s denuclearization or groundbreaking progress in inter-Korean relations, it is important that policy be pursued at the domestic level. In short, even in the midst of this situation, reaching a political and social consensus at the domestic level on unification and North Korea policy is possible, important, and significant. Therefore, I emphasize that the minimalist programmatic approach, which lays the domestic foundation for the mid- to long-term development of inter-Korean relations, is as important and meaningful as the maximalist programmatic approach, which is the visible and epoch-making outcome of North-South relations.