Negotiating with North Korea in the Shadow of Great Power Rivalry

The United States and South Korea are converging on the idea of dialogue with North Korea, but Pyongyang insists its status as a nuclear power must be accepted as a precondition for talks. In response to diplomatic overtures, North Korea has been building leverage by showcasing modernized missile technology and strengthening its strategic cooperation with China and Russia. Historically, North Korea's negotiation tactics have shifted between pragmatic, gradual arms reduction proposals during times of great power rapprochement and more radical demands when relying on allied support. Currently, Pyongyang's foreign policy is centered on alliance diplomacy, particularly with Russia and China, following its 'power for power, goodwill for goodwill' strategy.