March 28, 2024
Analysis

The Kaesong calculus: Is the inter-Korean project worthwhile?

North and South both play brinksmanship, but seem to understand KIZ’s importance

In June 2003, at the height of the Sunshine Policy of intra-Korean reconciliation, a ground-breaking ceremony took place near the North Korean city of Kaesong. The ceremony launched a construction project that in due time became the Kaesong Industrial Zone (KIZ), the largest of joint North-South projects realized so far.

Many observers (including myself) met the news with skepticism, but they – or should I say “we” – have been proven wrong: The project has survived and even prospered, though not to the extent that optimists hoped back in 2003.

Become a member for less than $4 per week.

  • Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
  • The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in the loop
  • Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
  • Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting, investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe now

All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.