북한에 대한 인도적 지원의 경제 ·사회적 효과

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the effects of South Korean humanitarian aid to North Korea. In particular, it aims to expand the scope of debate on the effects of such assistance. The paper discusses not only the impact on the North Korean economy and society, which has been addressed in previous studies, but also the effects on the South Korean economy. In terms of methodology, this paper undertakes a fresh analysis through interviews with refugees from North Korea. Although field research is necessary to more objectively assess the influence of aid, in this case the author has performed an indirect investigation utilizing the testimony of North Korean refugees. South Korean humanitarian assistance has had an immense impact on North Korea’s entire macro economy, which is no longer in decline. Indeed, it has served as a decisive factor in the economy’s small but sustained positive growth. The effect of aid on the economic life of North Koreans is of a dual nature. The direct benefit to ordinary citizens may not be significant, due to the possibility that foodstuffs are reserved exclusively for military use. However, aid has affected the lives of North Koreans by preventing an increase in market prices. And they have more or less benefited regarding their supply of food. Assistance has also had a positive influence on the expansion of the market economy. The influx of goods into the market has brought about an increase in economic activity and enabled North Koreans to learn about the market economy. Furthermore, humanitarian aid has positively impacted the changing North Korean perceptions of the South, mitigating the sense of hostility. It is especially important to note the testimony that the number of North Koreans who hope for unification with the South has increased, which could act as a tangible dynamic force for unification. In addition, as seen in the instance of fertilizer, assistance to the North has undoubtedly had a positive effect on the South Korean economy. This is by no means limited to the case of fertilizer. In conclusion, this paper examines the effects of humanitarian assistance to North Korea on its economy and society, as well as on the South Korean economy. In doing so, the paper intends to enrich and bolster the logic behind refuting and responding to those who insist that humanitarian aid to North Korea is a free giveaway.