Introduction

This book aims to offer alternative narratives that can contribute to the search for solutions to the lingering rhetoric of denuclearisation-first, based on its research question of whether we should continue to leave ordinary North Koreans behind in hardship just because the Kim regime persists in pursuing nuclear development. In doing so, the book is organised with seven chapters, including Introduction, in order to consider whether there are any alternative narratives that can help us escape the existing, long-drawn-out rhetoric of the security–development nexus and ‘denuclearisation-first’ and focus on the human rights of North Koreans and opportunities for social change.