Since Kim Jong-unâs assumption of power in December 2011, North Korea has undergone expanded nuclear development, political isolation, and economic stagnation. Kimâs early prioritization of the byungjin policy, simultaneous economic and military or nuclear development, highlighted his goal of transforming North Koreaâs domestic economic circumstances and strengthening its position in the world as a nuclear state. The central dilemma shaping Kim Jong-unâs foreign policy throughout his first decade in power revolves around ensuring North Koreaâs prosperity and security while sustaining the political isolation and control necessary for regime survival. In order to evaluate North Koreaâs foreign policy under Kim, this volume will examine the impact of domestic factors that have influenced the formation and implementation of Kimâs foreign policy, Kimâs distinctive use of summitry and effectiveness of such meetings as an instrument by which to attain foreign policy goals, and the impact of international responses to North Koreaâs pursuit of nuclear capabilities on North Koreaâs foreign policy.
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