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The Coronavirus (COVID-19) that began in Wuhan, China, has evolved
into a pandemic, spreading globally throughout Asia, Europe and
America. North Korea, which shares its borders with China,is not an
exception, although it has been denying the outbreak of COVID-19 cases
within the country. Professor Won Gon Park of Handong Global
University states that the warm message sent by Kim Jong-un to
President Moon Jae-in regarding the outbreak of COVID-19 in South
Korea shows North Korea's desire to overcome domestic challenges. In
particular, North Korea is faced with grave economic difficulties since
China is unable to fully support North Korea due to its own battle
against COVID-19 . He suggests that North Korea may try to take
advantage of the current situation by attempting to weaken international
sanctions in hopes of carrying on its 'head-on breakthrough' agenda. In
response, he argues that the international community should be careful
not to interrupt the sanctions regime, even if North Korea may require
assistance for overcoming the pandemic. [Read Commentary]
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