1. Mark your confusion. 2. Show evidence of a close reading. 3. Write a 1+ page reflection.

QUESTION

Directions for reading and responding to the article:
1. Mark your confusion.
2. Show evidence of a close reading.
3. Write a 1+ page reflection.
Possible Response Questions:
The article identifies North Korea as our biggest worry. What should the U.S. do about North Korea? (Suggestion: read more about it online before answering)
Pick a passage from the article and respond to it.

ANSWER

Analyzing the Concerns and Challenges of North Korea: A Reflection

Introduction

In this reflection, I will engage with an article discussing the concerns and challenges posed by North Korea. I will begin by marking any points of confusion, followed by demonstrating evidence of a close reading. Finally, I will offer my thoughts on the suggested response question regarding the actions the United States should take in relation to North Korea. Throughout this analysis, I aim to provide an informative and well-structured response.

Marking Confusion

While reading the article, I encountered a few points that raised questions or generated confusion. One such aspect was the limited context provided on the specific concerns posed by North Korea. It would have been helpful to have a clearer outline of the country’s actions or policies that make it the “biggest worry” according to the article (Appukuttan, 2016). Additionally, the article lacked insight into the historical background and geopolitical dynamics shaping the current situation on the Korean Peninsula. More context would have facilitated a deeper understanding of the challenges at hand.

Evidence of Close Reading

Upon closely examining the article, several notable passages caught my attention. For instance, the author argues that “North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs present a significant threat to regional stability.” This statement underscores the importance of addressing North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and emphasizes the potential consequences for regional security(North Korea and Iran’s Nuclear Programs as Instability Factors in the New System of International Relations, n.d.). Furthermore, the article highlights the need for a nuanced approach, suggesting that a combination of diplomatic engagement, economic pressure, and deterrence might be necessary to mitigate the threat.

Reflection

The suggested response question asks what the United States should do about North Korea. It is imperative to approach this question with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding the issue. The United States, in collaboration with the international community, should adopt a multifaceted strategy to address North Korea’s concerns effectively. This strategy may include the following elements:

Diplomatic Engagement

Engaging in direct diplomatic talks with North Korea is crucial to establishing channels of communication and reducing tensions. Diplomacy offers an opportunity to discuss concerns, negotiate agreements, and find common ground.

Economic Pressure

Implementing targeted economic sanctions can be an effective tool in deterring North Korea from advancing its nuclear and missile programs. By increasing the economic cost of pursuing these activities, the United States can compel North Korea to reconsider its priorities.

Regional Cooperation

Collaborating with regional allies, such as South Korea and Japan, is essential for creating a united front against North Korea’s provocations. Strengthening alliances and coordination in the region can enhance deterrence and demonstrate a unified response to North Korean threats.

Humanitarian Aid

Recognizing the humanitarian needs of the North Korean population is crucial. The United States should continue providing humanitarian aid to alleviate the suffering of the North Korean people, separate from political considerations (Zadeh-Cummings & Harris, 2020). This approach promotes goodwill and potentially opens avenues for further engagement.

Track II Diplomacy

Supplementing official diplomatic efforts, engaging in Track II diplomacy, which involves unofficial channels of communication and dialogue, can provide additional opportunities for building trust, fostering understanding, and exploring potential solutions.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, addressing the concerns posed by North Korea demands a comprehensive strategy that combines diplomatic engagement, economic pressure, regional cooperation, humanitarian aid, and the utilization of Track II diplomacy. The United States should work closely with its regional allies and the international community to encourage North Korea to abandon its nuclear ambitions and pursue peaceful resolutions. By pursuing a balanced approach, there is hope for improved stability and security in the Korean Peninsula and the wider region.

Reflections

Appukuttan, D. P. (2016). Strategies to manage patients with dental anxiety and dental phobia: literature review. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dentistry, 35. https://doi.org/10.2147/ccide.s63626 

North Korea and Iran’s Nuclear Programs as Instability Factors in the New System of International Relations. (n.d.). George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies. https://www.marshallcenter.org/en/publications/occasional-papers/north-korea-and-irans-nuclear-programs-instability-factors-new-system-international-relations-0 

Zadeh-Cummings, N., & Harris, L. J. (2020). The Impact of Sanctions against North Korea on Humanitarian Aid. The Impact of Sanctions Against North Korea on Humanitarian Aid, 2(1), 44–52. https://doi.org/10.7227/jha.033