Better approach for North Korea

Negotiating with a rogue nation and authoritarian dictatorship doesn't work with some caveats. In the instance of China and North Korea, China wields considerably greater power and influence. Presumably, North Korea exists purely by support from China.

What does China need and want for its future economic prosperity?

The answer is new markets and stronger trading partnerships.

South Korea represents a prospective trading partnership for expanded development. A United Korea would be much better as it would be positive for business while reducing military tensions.

The United States, South Korea, and China could negotiate a strategy to unseat the North Korean regime. The strategy could include the targeted removal of the "supreme leader," by various alternative means.

The removal would have to be swift and decisive with assurance to North Koreans, citizens and military leaders, that they would benefit from assistance in transitioning to new leadership.

The form of a new government would be at issue in the U.S.-S. Korea-China strategy development. A democratic republic is what the U.S. and S. Korea would require. However, China must receive respect for its national integrity and form of government with assurances.

Military action could be contained under a proper strategy. The greatest consideration would be establishing defenses against a rogue retaliation whereby North Korea might launch attacks on South Korea or Japan. The U.S., South Korea, Japan, and China would have to collaborate and coordinate defensive actions to intercept or preclude hostile attacks by the North Koreans.

The State Department and Department of Defense must coordinate in U.S. strategy development with full vetting by Congress and the President before advancing in that direction.

Expected Outcomes

1. Elimination of North Korea as a rogue regime.
2. Replacement of North Korean leadership and form of government.
3. Strategy to reunite Korea.
4. Improved relationship with China.
5. Reduced militarization of Asia.
6. Reduced defense cost for all nations involved.

Asian Theater