North Korea diplomacy

For a second time, North Korea criticized Pelosi’s visit to the Asia-Pacific region, defining her as “the worst destroyer of international peace and stability.”

Standing with its biggest ally, North Korea publicly delivered its ironclad support for the “One China” principle.

Continued missile testing by North Korea will not compel Seoul, Tokyo, or Washington to seek the negotiations Pyongyang could use to address its needs.

Kim Jong Un will likely conduct more advanced weapons tests this year in his own version of “maximum pressure.”  

The pace of policy turnarounds has been dizzying.

North Korea decided not to participate in the Beijing Olympics due to “hostile forces” and the pandemic.

Recent developments suggest North Korea is adopting its own version of “strategic patience”: ignoring diplomatic outreach until the situation turns in its favor.

The North Korean leader said the inter-Korean hotlines will be restored in early October, but also warned against the arms buildup of South Korea and the U.S.  

Kim Yo Jong welcomed Moon’s outreach in his U.N. speech, but made clear that Seoul will have to end its “hostile policies” first.

The North’s missile launch came amid a flurry of diplomatic meetings in Seoul and Tokyo. Seoul quickly followed up with its own SLBM test. 

The optimal solution to North Korea’s nuclear and missile challenges will require a middle ground between stronger deterrence and maximal engagement.