Korean Denuclearization and the US-China Strategic Rivalry

Abstract

This paper discusses the ways in which the growing strategic rivalry between the United States and China will complicate regional efforts to denuclearize the Korean peninsula. In particular, it reviews how relative gains, strategic mistrust, domestic politics, and coercive bargaining will all make cooperation on Korean denuclearization increasingly challenging for the United States and China. Our paper concludes by reflecting on how the US, the Republic of Korea, and Japan can navigate this increasingly complex security environment.