Multilateral Approaches to the Korean Problems: A Comparative Analysis of the KEDO and Four Party Talks

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to compare the performances of the KEDO(Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization) and Four Party Talks(FPT) which represent the recent multilateral approaches to the Korean problems. When we evaluate the outcomes of these two multilateral efforts, the KEDO project has so far been moderately successful, while the FPT has so far produced nothing but to talk. What factors are responsible for the different performances of these two organs? One of the major factors includes the different degree of US commitment to these two organs. The Clinton Administration has shown a much stronger commitment to KEDO than to FPT since the country has more immediate concern with the former than with the latter. Another important factor is the nature of organizational goals assumed by the multilateral organs. The major goal of KEDO is a practical one which includes the provision of the light water reactors and heavy fuel oil to North Korea, while FPT is dealing with a very contentious political issue related to the national security of the two Korean governments. A final factor is North Korea's strategy of dealing with these two organs. North Korea has shown very cooperative attitudes toward the KEDO, but has intentionally attempted to ignore the agenda of FPT.