Following national division, the two halves of the peninsula became increasingly heterogeneous. Consequently, the South Korean government has striven to rebuild a national community through inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation rather than rush to achieve unification.
Inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation have centered on three economic projects: reconnection of inter-Korean railways and roads, construction of the Gaeseong Industrial Complex and Mt. Geumgang (Diamond Mountain) tourism. The scope of these projects has expanded during the Roh Moo-hyun Administration.
Inter-Korean Trade (1989-2005) | | | North Korean workers at the Gaeseong Industrial Complex |
|
In 2005, inter-Korean exchanges of people reached 88,341 and inter-Korean trade was valued at US$1,055 million. More than 1,000 South Koreans visit North Korea every day across the Demilitarized Zone by newly opened overland routes. These exchanges and trade have continued to increase in 2006.
The South Korean government has endeavored to set up measures to activate and guarantee inter-Korean exchanges of personnel and goods. These include easing transit and customs procedures and an agreement on guaranteeing safe passage between the two Koreas. Finally, the construction of transit facilities on the Gyeongui (Seoul-Sinuiju) and Donghae (East Coast) Rail Lines was completed on March 15, 2006, so that they can accommodate up to 12,000 persons daily.
The Office of Inter-Korean Economic Cooperation was opened in Gaeseong. Staffed by South Korean civil servants residing in North Korea, the office consults directly with the North Koreans on inter-Korean economic cooperation.
There have been as many as 34 inter-Korean talks at which various issues have been discussed and solved. Inter-Korean talks contributed to solidifying the foundation for inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation on the basis of mutual understanding and trust.
Inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation are one of the pillars buttressing the Policy for Peace and Prosperity and bringing economic benefits to both Koreas. In addition, they will help remove mistrust between the two Koreas, which has lasted for a half-century, by easing military tension on the peninsula and will play an important role in restoring the homogeneity of the Korean people.