ABSTRACT
Current literature on the Cold War emphasises the need to decentre traditional narratives and focus instead on the periphery. In Latin America, this approach has contributed to new interpretations that consider the role of actors such as Brazil, Cuba, China and others. However, scant attention has been paid to North and South Korea. Drawing on multi-archival work, this chapter argues that diplomatic competition between North and South Korea was a key element in the development of bilateral relations between the Latin American republics and the two Koreas and examines inter-Korean competition in two Southern Cone countries, Argentina and Chile. The research findings show that while South Korea was quickly recognised by both countries, its diplomatic passivity allowed North Korean diplomacy to score several victories, namely the establishment of friendship associations and exchanges of delegations. Consequently, South Korea responded to Pyongyang's advances. However, only after the rise of anti-communist dictatorships in the Southern Cone were North Korean diplomats ousted from their positions, giving way to South Korea's consolidation as the only legitimate Korean state. By exploring this little-known part of the Cold War, this chapter aims to integrate the Korean competition for legitimacy into the international history of Latin America.
