For years, North Korea has rejected all dialogue with Seoul, denouncing reunification and spurning offers of aid.

But Jeju Island’s announcement this week that it sent medical equipment, citrus saplings and other supplies to the DPRK suggests that another channel for engagement may still be open: South Korea’s local governments.

While North Korea has not confirmed the transfer, local governments have long served as alternate pathways to exchanges with the DPRK, from Jeju’s “Vitamin C diplomacy” to tourism projects pursued by border provinces. Jeju’s latest success could provide a template for renewed cooperation.

However, experts caution that it is still