Pyongyang's adjustment in the post-cold war era: Modifying the United States' North Korea policy

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK, North Korea) finds itself increasingly isolated diplomatically. Moreover, confronted with a contemporary world that is on the march toward openness and reform, North Korea in recent years has changed its trade, economic, and foreign policies. While maintaining the policy of deterrence, the United States and Japan can utilize political engagement, and offer the DPRK inducements and economic assistance to create an external environment that increases the chances of the gradual evolution of reform in the DPRK and reduces tensions on the Korean Peninsula. The evolution of North Korea under the current leadership of Kim Jong-il will be decided primarily by internal events; but the external setting is not irrelevant, particularly given the economic difficulties and political isolation imposed on Pyongyang. It is vital for regional stability that every effort be made to bring North Korea into the international community.