Position Paper North Korea.docx

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Position Paper of A North Korean Lawyer in view of the Korean Unification

One has to be mindful of such advancement for the unification of the Korean peninsula. A very bold move to undertake since 1953, the peak of the Korean War. We recall that this particular event divided the former Korea in half. It separated Koreans away from their homes, families, and work. To top it up, such endeavor was a product of two states competing for the throne of hegemony. In this turn, the Koreans became the proxies of two superpowers conflicting in ideology. Today, the effect of the division is still felt as Koreans both from the North and South are unable to move across the Demilitarized Zone, situated at the 38th parallel. Koreans, as of today are still separated from their families. Some, recently had a chance to see each other in a reunion which lasted for a few hours alone. How can this be? How can this act divide people who speak of the same language, enjoy the same culture, and sing of the same song? The repercussive effect is still felt and it continues to grow. In this regard, I being a law practitioner in North Korea, vows to move for the unification of the two Koreas. Being a lawyer, I have recognized and acknowledged the effects of the unification. I believe firmly that once the peninsula has been unified, glory is at hand. For instance, a unified Korea will establish for a better reputation in the international community. Nations will be now able to communicate with the Korea in advancing and updating developments in the modern society. Economic implications will lean towards economic development and industrialization. To unify Korea will be seen as an emerging economic superpower, granting the influence of the South as regard to the cultural diplomacy tactic employed. As regard to the form and type of government, as a lawyer, I would see effective to have a democratic parliamentary government. Building on the principle of democracy, a unified Korea has to be governed by leaders who were elected by the people. This is a symbol of unity. A strong nation. Only through a democratic government, full unification and recognition as one nation can be done. A parliamentary structure, to complement the move to democracy. Considering that there exist two governments. The best way to reconcile these governments is to have a parliamentary government that shall be composed by 50% North Korean officials and the other fifty percent, South Koreans.

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As to the refugee influx, the Korean unification will provide for a council that shall cater the necessity of the rehabilitation of the said refugees. Refugees from other states, shall impact positive implications during the transition, and this can be achieved by having a council that shall cater these transactions. Having placed my argument, I yield to have this probable conclusion – that the unified Korea will be an emerging superpower in Asia that embodies culture, economy, and good governance. It is time to end the sufferings of the nationals and begin a new journey together.

ERVIN GEDMAIRE S. CARO Foreign Service III