Publication

This commentary analyzes Kim Jong Un's two missile tests from an international security perspective. It argues that the second test cannot be seen as a way to fulfill the former president's wishes. It indicates a less positive posture of North Korea than the West expected. Additionally, the Chinese reaction seems to suggest that China is not more willing to hold North Korea accountable for its actions. The author advocates new solutions that offer North Korea significant benefits for de-nuclearization in conjunction with credible consequences if it reneges on any deal. The paper concludes that the new Chinese leadership has an important role to play in restoring the United Nations Security Council's (NSC) authority.