Summary: As the Olympics concluded in South Korea, discussion between the U.S and North Korea revolves around the removal of their nuclear weapons. North Korea maintains that they are willing to engage in talks, however, many are skeptical of their agreement to give up their nuclear weapons. After the Olympics, where North Korean presence was felt, both South Korea and the U.S were hopeful as their talks continued.
Questions:
1. Do you believe that the U.S. will be able to coerce North Korea into giving over or limiting their nuclear arsenal?
2. In your opinion, does North Koreas presence at the Olympics give insight to possible compromise?
Article Link: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-43189691
2 comments:
I think it is unlikely that the US or South Korea will be able to convince North Korea to completely give other their nuclear arsenal. However, I agree that the North Korean presence at the Olympics is hopefully, and is a sign that they are much more open to negotiation. In the past, the Olympics have often been a important international stage. A number of huge political statements have been made at past Olympics. In 1936, Nazi Germany used the Olympics portray their country as a benign and progressive. In 1948, both Germany and Japan were banned from the Olympics following WWII. The Mexico City Olympics of 1968 was a staging ground for civil rights protests. These are just a few examples of how the Olympics have been used as a political tool, and how they have also reflected the current international political climate of the time. Given this, it is in fact very hopeful that North Korea chose to participate peacefully in the 2018 Olympics.
I agree with Lydia completely. I don't think that any country will be open to giving up their entire military arsenal and it's kind of ridiculous to assume that any country would do that even for diplomatic reasons. I think that North Korea's presence at the Olympics showed a willingness to open up to diplomatic talks, but I am unsure of when there will be another opportunity to see a peaceful encounter like this in the near future.
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