China-U.S. Relations and the Security of the Korean Peninsula

This article outlines the general framework of bilateral relations between China and the United States, and identifies their central strategic interests that are embodied in their respective policies toward the Korea Peninsula. Based on this elaboration, the authors further explore the divergences and convergences of the Chinese and American security strategies and foreign policies on issues related to Korea, with a focus on the effects of North Korea's latest nuclear test in February 2013 on their respective interests and attitudes. In conclusion, the authors offer some practical approaches that might be jointly implemented by China and the United States in their handling of Korea-related issues. The authors argue that, despite the complexities of China-U.S. bilateral relations and some potential sources of hostility between them, China and the United States can still manage to establish a mechanism to stabilize the Korea Peninsula through joint efforts.