Analysis of the Political Implications of North Korea's Declaration of a Hostile Two-state Relationship

This study aims to analyze the political implications of North Korea's declaration of an 'antagonistic two-state relationship,' focusing on the political background of the declaration, changes in Kim Jong-un's unification strategy toward South Korea, and its impact on inter-Korean relations and the international community. The declaration is a policy intended to invalidate South Korea's grounds for intervention in North Korea under the pretext of unification, thereby deeming South Korean involvement illegal. This antagonistic two-state theory is based on political intentions to exploit U.S.-Russia and U.S.-China conflicts and to enhance North Korea-Russia cooperation, thereby strengthening military power and escalating conflicts between the two Koreas. Through an antagonistic relationship with South Korea, North Korea can assert its legitimacy in the international community and solidify its strategic doctrine towards the South. In this context, South Korea needs to consistently advocate for peaceful unification under a liberal democratic system while strengthening the South Korea-U.S.-Japan alliance, enhancing mutual dependence with China, and promoting mutual interests with Russia.