Page 68 - Trilateral Korea Japan U.S. Cooperation

Introduction

One of the most important reasons for China to allow North
Korea to strengthen its military capabilities is a growing
linkage between security on the Korean Peninsula and security
across the Taiwan Strait. Since the United States and Japan
are committed to the defense of South Korea and Taiwan
simultaneously, the security environment on the Korean
Peninsula will affect the security environment across the
Taiwan Strait and vice versa.

North Korea’s development of long-range cruise missiles is
another source of concern. In case of war across the Taiwan
Strait, China would likely encourage North Korea to create
tension on the Korean Peninsula to draw U.S. and Japanese
forces away from Taiwan. With the security of the Korean
Peninsula and the Taiwan Strait becoming more intertwined,
China might increase its military support to North Korea for
diversionary purposes.

Russia’s recent decision to procure ammunition and missiles
from North Korea is greatly benefitting Pyongyang. In
return, North Korea is acquiring foreign currency, energy, and
military equipment and technologies. If North Korea is the
primary winner in this game, China is the secondary winner.
Due to the war in Ukraine and improved Russia-North Korea
relations, China can gain important advantages without
tarnishing its hands.

Recently, North Korea started calling South Korea by its

Chapter Four : Growing Strategic Linkages and North Korea’s Anti-Unification Policy 67