Fact Check: Kim Jong-un Declared Inter-Korean Relations as Hostile in Late 2023
What We Know
In late 2023, North Korea's constitution was amended to officially classify South Korea as a "hostile state." This change was reported by the state media, which described it as an "inevitable and legitimate measure" amid rising tensions between the two Koreas (BBC). Kim Jong-un emphasized that inter-Korean relations had devolved into a "relationship between two hostile countries and two belligerents at war" (BBC). This declaration followed a series of aggressive actions by North Korea, including the destruction of infrastructure connecting the two nations, which was framed as a step towards further separation (BBC).
The shift in policy was characterized by the adoption of the "Two Hostile States" doctrine, which asserts that reconciliation and unification with South Korea are no longer feasible (Global NK). Analysts noted that this development significantly escalated the risks of confrontation and highlighted the deteriorating state of inter-Korean relations (BBC, Global NK).
Analysis
The claim that Kim Jong-un declared inter-Korean relations as hostile is supported by multiple credible sources. The BBC reported the constitutional amendment, noting that it was the first formal acknowledgment of South Korea as a hostile entity. This aligns with statements made by Kim Jong-un, who has increasingly framed the relationship with South Korea in adversarial terms, particularly since he declared unification as impossible in January 2024 (BBC).
Bruce Bennett, a defense analyst at the Rand Corporation, highlighted the significance of this constitutional change, indicating that it raised the risks of confrontation between the two Koreas (BBC). Furthermore, Sang Ki Kim from the Korea Institute for National Unification pointed out that the declaration of South Korea as a hostile state marked a fundamental shift in North Korea's policy, further entrenching skepticism regarding the possibility of reconciliation (Global NK).
While some experts express skepticism about the likelihood of a full-scale war, they acknowledge that the hostile rhetoric and actions from North Korea have heightened tensions significantly (BBC, Global NK). The consensus among analysts is that the declaration of hostility is a strategic move by North Korea to consolidate internal support and justify military posturing.
Conclusion
The claim that Kim Jong-un declared inter-Korean relations as hostile in late 2023 is True. The constitutional amendment explicitly labeling South Korea as a "hostile state" and Kim's subsequent statements confirm a significant shift in North Korea's approach to inter-Korean relations, marking a departure from any pretense of reconciliation.
