[Column] Is North Korea’s ‘two states’ doctrine really a response to Hallyu’s influence?

1. Summary

The author claims that North Korea’s “two state” doctrine emerges from confidence in their growing military power and economic prosperity. The author reports that mainstream academics are failing to see the great economic growth and improvement in the quality of life among North Koreans citing official statistics.

2. How is this related to the sub

(1) The rise of North Korea: The author argues that North Korea’s “two state” doctrine comes from their confidence in their power and economy.

3. My opinion

Korean left claims North Korea’s “two state” doctrine emerges from their growing confidence. They have new allies in China, Russia and the US, their economy is improving as the diet diversification reported. This made Kim Jong Un to think implementing two state solution is possible as he believes this improvement in North Korea lifestyle will stop North Koreans from wanting reunification with South.