ABSTRACT

For decades after the division of Korea in 1945, Koreans collectively yearned for national unification (a.k.a. “reunification”). The once ubiquitous desire is now dwindling: while it is difficult to determine the views of average North Koreans on reunification, many younger South Koreans have grown to oppose it. Yet, there are compelling reasons for South Koreans to rekindle their wish for reunification. Properly achieved, reunification would enable Koreans to address the injustices caused by the division, unlock abundant economic opportunities for the Korean Peninsula, and restore human dignity to oppressed North Koreans. It could foster regional peace, paving the way for global peace.