Korea, U.S. Reach Blockade Compromise

The South Korean government is likely to define its role in the U.S.-led Proliferation Security Initiative, under which cargo inspections of North Korean vessels are included. It will officially leave the initiative but unofficially participate in the international community’s effort.

“The South Korean government almost decided to join in the PSI, but I heard it will not disclose the decision for the time being,” said one US diplomatic source in Washington on October 30.

“When the government’s official participation becomes a controversy in Korea, it will announce to Korean people that its participation is not official. I know the Bush administration has also agreed on that,” he said.

The South Korean government’s decision is in line with its somewhat conflicting policy direction, under which it agrees to the UN Security Council’s resolution, but wishes to maintain ties with North Korea.

The U.S. government recently presented PSI’s 8 requirements to South Korea. During the January strategic dialogue with Washington, Seoul agreed to articles 1 to 5, under which it should share information on dubious North Korean ships and dispatch observers to PSI joint drills. But MOFAT did not disclose the agreement to Korean citizens until the media revealed it.

Under articles 6 and 7, South Korea should respond to incidental occasions with the North in its border (sea) and send supplies to other countries when incidents occur beyond the border, respectively. If Seoul agrees to article 8, in which the ‘interdiction principle’ is stipulated, it is officially participating the PSI.

“Seoul will agree to article 6 and 7, and accept US’ suggestion. But it will not sign article 8 so that it can claim to Korean people that Korea didn’t completely join the PSI,” said another source in Washington.

srkim@donga.com