Resolving the Korean Conflict through a Combination of Human Rights and Human Security

Why has the division-armistice system lasted over 70 years in the Korean Peninsula? It could be said that the system has been sustained by the existence of forces that still remain to support the division of the peninsula by reproducing distrust and a sense of animosity. For instance, the continuing confrontations and conflicts over human rights between the two Koreas are remnants of the Cold War. Exploiting peace and security issues for political gains by the two division powers also demonstrates the continuation of the division-armistice system. How can the protracted conflict under this system be overcome? This study analyzes the characteristics of the protracted conflict in the Korean Peninsula and explores alternatives from a macro-critical perspective. The author attempts to answer this research question by paying attention to the synergistic effects of human rights and security. The politicization of human rights and continuing militarism are manifestations of the negative synergistic effects of the norms under the division-armistice system. Including security in human rights and embracing human rights in peace are essential for transforming these negative synergistic effects into positive effects toward developing a sustainable peace. Human security and the right to peace are proposed here as alternatives for creating positive synergistic effects. In resolving the Korean conflict, it is becoming increasingly important to make efforts in improving inter-Korean relations, promoting peaceful and democratic transition in North Korea, and increasing civilian control of the military in all countries concerned.