Publication

This briefing reports on the nuclear and missile standoff in the wake of North Korea's missile launch on 5 July 2006. It warns that if the US does not adopt a new approach, including an openness towards bilateral talks, the confrontation could escalate. The July missile test further exposed the strategic dilemma of South Korea and the growing strains in its relationship with the US. The briefing recommends a series of steps to be taken by the US in order to ascertain North Korea's sincerity towards negotiations.