ABSTRACT
By comparison with the events that unleashed the Korean War, the ongoing drama of North Korea’s quest to develop atomic weaponry appears plodding and civil. For example, North Korea’s famous March 1993 announcement of its formal intention to withdraw from the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) came as the culmination of year-long detailed discussions and methodical deliberations involving the Republic of Korea, the United States, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and other parties. Since 1993, Pyongyang has actively promoted talks with foreign governments over possible formulae or procedures for defusing the crisis it had ignited. Furthermore, Pyongyang adhered to the letter of international law in acknowledging its obligation to remain a member of the NPT for another 90 days after tendering its withdrawal from the treaty. And in announcing a “temporary suspension” of its NPT withdrawal in June 1993-the day before its scheduled departure from the treatyNorth Korea chose continuing discussions over immediate conflict.
