N. Korea terminates economic collaboration with S. Korea

Strained relations persist between North and South Korea, stemming from Pyongyang’s weapons development programs and Seoul’s deepening military cooperation with the U.S. and Japan

Relations between North and South Korea have been strained due to Pyongyang’s increased weapons development and Seoul’s growing military cooperation with the U.S. and Japan. Key economic projects between the two nations have been suspended for years. 

During a meeting of the Supreme People’s Assembly, officials unanimously voted to repeal the law on inter-Korean economic cooperation. This decision follows Pyongyang’s recent declaration of Seoul as its main enemy, the abandonment of reunification agencies, and threats to occupy the south during war. 

The parliament also approved a plan to abolish a special law governing the Mount Kumgang tourism project, once a symbol of inter-Korean cooperation. The project, which was once a popular destination for South Korean tourists, was suspended in 2008 after a fatal shooting incident involving a North Korean soldier. 

The Mount Kumgang resort was one of the two major inter-Korean projects, along with the Kaesong Industrial Complex, which was closed by Seoul in response to North Korea’s nuclear test and missile launches. 

With the north drawing closer to Moscow, there are reports of Russian tourists planning to visit North Korea, potentially violating international sanctions imposed on Pyongyang. This move could provide the north with a source of revenue, but it is also a violation of sanctions. 

Source: Newsroom