새 정부의 대북정책, 어떻게 할 것인가: 경제협력 분야를 중심으로

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to provide basic information necessary for the development of major agendas for North Korea policy, particularly in economic cooperation sector, for the South Korea’s newly elected government. Inter-Korean economic cooperation serves as a critical foundation for the entire inter-Korean relations. Moreover, economic cooperation is meaningful on many levels as it plays positive roles in stable management of the Korean peninsula, improved relations between South and North Korea, formation of inter-Korean economic community, and contribution in the South Korean economy. Thus, economic cooperation must be pushed forward even during the most severe circumstances. However, it must be pursued in a step-by-step approach. At the present time, it is still premature to discuss revitalization and development of inter-Korean economic cooperation. Prior to this discussion, restoration of economic cooperation must take place. There are still antagonistic opinions against economic cooperation with North Korea in its entirety and ‘change in North Korea’ is placed as a precondition for any type of exchange or cooperation. Therefore, it may take longer than expected to resume the dialogue on restoring the inter-Korean economic cooperation. Then, what should be the first step to restore the economic cooperation? The first step should be taken with resolving the relatively simple issue first, which is the Kaesong Industrial Complex. Once new dialogue is resumed to discuss Kaesong Industrial Complex and fulfillment of previous agreements reached between the two countries, both parties can start the talks as a starting point to resolve the issues at hand and explore new ways to implement agreements. Through this effort, both sides can build confidence and it can naturally precede to the more difficult phase of ending May 24 Measures and resumption of Mount Kumgang tours.