[Future of North Korea 1] From the Fortress State to the Amphibious State: Some Thoughts on North Korea`s Gradual Transformation

Abstract

This article is an attempt to find a way to transform North Korea into an advanced country. North Korea has long suffered from its rigidity, backwardness, and isolation. It is high time for total changes in the North Korean system. In the future, Pyongyang needs to escape its identity of a fortress state and become an amphibious state. The amphibious state's mission is to link and absorb the strengths of maritime powers and land powers. I assume that North Korea's evolution shall be a step-by-step process. The first stage is the period of decay in which Military First Politics still rules. In the second stage, North Korea undergoes a transition period in which the Pyongyang leadership makes an effort to discard its Military First line and adopt partial reforms. The last stage is characterized by a brave policy that emphasizes economic efficiencies and people's welfare. In this stage, North Korea will transform into a liberal and open society.

Key Words

North Korea, an advanced country, a fortress state, an amphibious state

The full text in Korean is available here