战略与国际研究中心-What-Must-Be-Done-About-North-Korea_7页_132kb

KOREA CHAIR PLATFORM Summary

Core Content

This document is a policy platform authored by General B. B. Bell (Retired), outlining a comprehensive strategy to address the security challenges posed by North Korea. It was originally commissioned by the Korea Foundation in Seoul and reflects the author's experience as the Combined Forces Command (CFC) Commander in Korea from 2006 to 2008. The platform is a call to action for the United States and South Korea to reassess their relationship with North Korea and to adopt a more firm and unified stance.

Main Points

Current Situation and Concerns

• North Korea has become more belligerent, with repeated provocations such as the sinking of the Cheonan patrol ship and the shelling of Yeonpyeong Island.
• The North has developed a nuclear arsenal and missile programs, including the Taepodong series.
• North Korea's military-first policy has led to an over-militarized state, while its citizens suffer from lack of basic needs.
• The regime is seen as a "rogue aberration" that cannot be trusted and has no history of good faith negotiations.

Policy Recommendations

1. Suspension of Engagement with North Korea

   • All efforts toward engagement, negotiations, and reconciliation should be suspended as long as Kim Jong Il remains in power.
   • The North's repeated violations of agreements and reckless use of military force make negotiation impossible.

2. Containment and Economic Sanctions

   • Implement a strict policy of containment and economic embargo.
   • Work with the UN and global community to isolate North Korea economically and diplomatically.
   • Abandon the idea of engaging North Korea in exchange for economic aid.

3. Strategic Communications Campaign

   • South Korea should launch a long-term campaign to inform North Korean citizens about the threat of their regime and the benefits of reunification under a free and democratic system.

4. Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI)

   • Vigorously enforce the PSI to prevent North Korea from exporting nuclear weapons, technology, and delivery systems.

5. Abandon the Six Party Talks

   • The Six Party Talks process has failed and should be officially terminated.
   • Reengagement should only occur if a new North Korean leader demonstrates a genuine desire for peace and dialogue.

6. Reaffirm Reunification as the Goal

   • Reunification of Korea is the only acceptable path for the Korean people.
   • A permanent division is unacceptable, and any steps toward recognizing North Korea as a separate nation or signing a peace treaty outside the Armistice framework should be avoided.

7. Military Strengthening and Readiness

   • South Korea should terminate efforts to reduce its military and instead strengthen its armed forces.
   • Modernize the Marine Corps, improve air force capabilities, and deploy ground-based missile defense systems integrated with U.S. capabilities.
   • Conduct regular joint and combined military exercises with the U.S. to ensure readiness against North Korean aggression.

8. Establish a Standing Joint Task Force

   • South Korea should form its own standing joint task force to conduct limited but effective retaliatory strikes against North Korean provocations, in coordination with the U.S.

9. U.S. Military Contributions

   • The U.S. should return an Army attack helicopter battalion to South Korea.
   • Increase the presence of U.S. combat units, carriers, and air squadrons in the region.
   • Strengthen the U.S.-South Korea Security Alliance through military presence and readiness.

Security Alliance Assessment

• The U.S.-South Korea Security Alliance has been effective but has drifted over the years.
• The author supports the transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON) to South Korea but emphasizes that this should not be delayed by North Korean provocations.
• The alliance must remain strong and unwavering to ensure regional stability.

Key Information

• North Korea's Threat: The regime is a major security threat due to its nuclear program, missile development, and aggressive actions.
• Alliance Resilience: Despite past challenges, the U.S. and South Korea have a strong and enduring relationship that must be reinforced.
• China's Role: China is criticized for failing to rein in North Korea, despite its economic and diplomatic ties. The author suggests that China is not a responsible partner in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
• Need for Unity: The U.S., South Korea, and Japan must lead efforts to contain North Korea, while still seeking China's cooperation when it is forthcoming.

Conclusion

General Bell argues that the only way to address North Korea's threat is through a combination of military strength, economic sanctions, and resolute diplomacy. He advocates for a complete reorientation of the U.S.-South Korea relationship, emphasizing the need for a unified and unwavering stance against North Korea's aggressive policies. Reunification of Korea is presented as the ultimate goal, and the alliance must be prepared to act decisively to prevent further instability in the region.