The North Korean Nuclear Issue and the United Nations

The threat from North Korea is likely to continue with the apparent absence of any intent or interest in giving up its nuclear ambitions in the near future. North Korean provocations are likely to feature conventional weapons backed up by Pyongyang's nuclear arsenal to deter any Korean and U. S. response against the North. Overall, there is a possibility of further military challenges from the North and a more unstable situation on the Korean peninsula, especially during the succession period apparently underway in North Korea. Therefore, resolving the North Korean nuclear issue through the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) could help the resumption of the Six-Party Talks (6PT). However, the complex and intermingled goals of the 6PT are further limited by the new uranium enrichment program. During the present deadlock in these talks, Korea should support the activities of the UNSC and North Korea Sanctions Committee, strongly encourage the resumption of the 6PT, and make all diplomatic efforts to focus international pressure on Pyongyang aimed at making it cease disrupting regional security or furthering its nuclear ambitions. The best policy towards North Korea is a peaceful solution of the nuclear crisis through the UNSC together with the 6PT.