A Constructivist Perspective on Inter-Korean Relations: The Evolution of Identity and Interstate Interactions

Abstract

The issue of the confrontational relationship between the two countries on the Korean Peninsula has been widely discussed worldwide, but there are still shortcomings in research on the Cold War period. Based on the current situation, this article utilizes constructivist theory, represented by Alexander Wendt’s viewpoint, to analyze the evolution of identity recognition and interaction between North and South Korea during the Cold War. Through analysis, the relationship between North and South Korea was at a freezing point at the end of the Korean War, and there were signs of easing in the following twenty years. The idea and concept of peaceful reunification were proposed, and after the end of the Cold War, the relationship took a big step forward, beginning cultural and economic exchanges and cooperation. Therefore, this article concludes that the relationship between North and South Korea gradually shifted from extreme confrontation to a certain degree of cooperation during the Cold War.