KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 19 (Bernama) -- South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has laid out a bold new approach to unifying the Korean Peninsula, firmly anchoring his vision in liberal democracy as the key to lasting peace with North Korea.
With the newly unveiled “August 15 Unification Doctrine”, the move is deemed groundbreaking, offering a clear roadmap for peace and unification.
Director of the World Institute for North Korea Studies, Dr Chung Eui Sung, shared his thoughts and analysis with Bernama on Yoon’s vision and how it stands as a pivotal strategy to counter North Korea’s increasingly hostile stance.
Chung highlighted Yoon’s key message that unification remains "the unfinished task" for the South Korean people.
"The president’s call for a unified, democratic Korea where all people are the sovereigns underscores the importance of liberal democracy as the path toward complete liberation.
"Yoon is turning the current crisis on the Korean Peninsula into an opportunity, emphasising that the spirit of liberal democracy must guide the way forward for Korea’s future," he said in his analysis.
The doctrine, released on the occasion of South Korea’s 79th National Liberation Day, included achieving unification based on liberal democracy.
Since taking office, Yoon has consistently emphasised "freedom" throughout the state administration.
Chung further highlighted that Yoon’s doctrine aligns with the broader historical goals of South Korea’s liberation movement, framing unification as essential for achieving full sovereignty.
He also delved into the specifics of Yoon’s "3-3-7" framework, which he described as a comprehensive and forward-thinking plan.
The framework comprises Three Major Unification Visions, Three Major Strategies and Seven Major Action Plans.
"The visions, particularly the focus on guaranteeing freedom and security, reflect Yoon’s commitment to a liberal democratic future for a unified Korea," Chung explained.
In addition, Chung praised Yoon’s emphasis on human rights in North Korea, especially his focus on expanding access to information.
“Yoon rightly pointed out that many North Korean defectors were able to see through the regime’s propaganda, thanks to broadcasts from the South.
“Ensuring that North Koreans have the right to accurate information is critical for undermining the regime’s control," he added.
Chung contrasted Yoon’s strategy with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s recent policies, noting that while Kim has pivoted to a militaristic approach, Yoon has doubled down on peaceful unification through international collaboration.
"Kim’s abandonment of previous unification strategies and his push for a forceful takeover of the South have deepened the divide.
“In contrast, Yoon is focused on fostering international support and leveraging the universal values of freedom and democracy," Chung said.
Chung also touched on the strategic importance of Yoon’s doctrine in a broader geopolitical context.
"By positioning South Korea as a strong advocate for liberal democracy and human rights, Yoon’s government is also securing much-needed international backing for unification.
“This is especially crucial as North Korea continues to leverage nuclear threats to destabilise the region," Chung explained.
He also pointed out that Yoon’s vision for a free and unified Korea includes a clear path to contribute to global peace and prosperity – something that Chung views as essential for fostering long-term stability in Northeast Asia.
This year, tensions on the Korean Peninsula have escalated as North Korea continues to expand its nuclear and missile capabilities, including the testing of hypersonic missiles.
International media reported that incidents along the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) have also added to the strain.
The use of psychological tactics, such as balloon propaganda campaigns, continues to fuel hostilities between the two nations. As inter-Korean dialogue remains stalled, the situation requires urgent diplomatic efforts to prevent further deterioration and potential conflict.
-- BERNAMA
