April 29, 2024
Analysis

Cuba’s move to establish ties with Seoul betrays North Korea’s economic weakness

Pyongyang is likely fuming over perceived disloyalty of longtime ally, but bilateral ties have been marginal for years

Last week, South Korea made the surprise move to establish diplomatic relations with Cuba, despite Havana’s close relationship with North Korea over several decades.

Given Cuba’s difficult economic situation, the regime in Havana may see this normalization with South Korea as a potential boost to its fledgling post-COVID tourism economy or faltering trade sector.

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