[LETTERS TO THE EDITOR]Hard-line policy backfires

The hard-line U.S. approach toward so-called “rogue states” only makes international relationships worse. As shown by U.S. remarks such as “outpost of tyranny” and “axis of evil,” the world’s superpower does not know how to deal with rogue states and does not do its job properly. These statements provoke North Korea, which is part of the so-called “axis of evil.” In addition, using hawkish diplomacy is not really helpful in deterring North Korea’s nuclear weapons ambitions and resuming the six-party talks. Consequently, nothing has been gained. South Korea’s “sunshine policy,” or “peace and prosperity policy,” is a better solution.
Moreover, economic sanctions and isolation are not advisable ways to deal with rogue states. When North Korea announced that it would not participate in the six-party talks until conditions were changed ― which meant that the United States should withdraw its outrageous statement and arrogant attitude ― the United States tried to discourage China’s trade with North Korea. It also tried to discourage the Kaesong industrial project in North Korea. But economic sanctions cannot deter rogue states from developing nuclear weapons or aiding terrorists.
Furthermore, not only do armed intervention and hard-line policies not eliminate rogue regimes, they do not promote universal values in international society. The hostile U.S. policy caused alienation between the two Koreas. China’s relationship with North Korea was also strained. The war against Iraq is another example of U.S. policy toward “rogue states” leading to human rights violation; Iraqi society was devastated and civilians killed, not to mention the torture at Abu Ghraib. Military intervention and hawkish policies only hinder peace and human rights.

by Lee Seo-hyun