Introduction In June 2000, South Korea and North Korea achieved a historic milestone with the first-ever Inter-Korean Summit. This unprecedented meeting between South Korean President Kim Dae-jung and North Korean leader Kim Jong-il marked a dramatic shift in relations on the Korean Peninsula after decades of hostility, division, and military tension. Background: Decades of Division Since the end of the Korean War in 1953, the Korean Peninsula had remained divided, heavily militarized, and politically frozen. Communication between the two Koreas was minimal, and mutual distrust defined their relationship for nearly half a century. The Sunshine Policy, introduced in 1998, laid the groundwork for dialogue by promoting engagement, humanitarian cooperation, and confidence-building measures rather than confrontation. The 2000 Pyongyang Summit From June 13 to June 15, 2000, President Kim Dae-jung visited Pyongyang, becoming the first South Korean leader to do so. His...
Introduction In 1996, South Korea took a historic step that reshaped its economy and international image: joining the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), often referred to as the “club of developed nations.” This milestone was more than a diplomatic achievement; it marked South Korea’s official transition from a developing country to a recognized global economic power. From Poverty to Global Ambition South Korea’s journey to OECD membership was long and challenging. Only a few decades earlier, the nation was among the poorest in the world, heavily dependent on foreign aid. By the 1990s, thanks to rapid industrialization and export-driven growth, the country had transformed itself. Key indicators of progress included: Expansion of major conglomerates like Samsung, LG, and Hyundai A rapidly growing export economy Strengthened financial systems Political stability and democratic reforms The international community began to recognize ...
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