Moderates in the U.S. State Department are also Doubtful of the Negotiations with Pyongyang

It was reported that even moderates in the U.S. State Department, who have been stressing dialogue and negotiation with North Korea within the U.S. administration, have recently doubted the chances for a successful negotiation with Pyongyang.

High profile diplomatic sources in Washington said on December 13, “The U.S. showed sincerity in the contact with Pyongyang held in New York at the end and beginning of November and December, respectively, but they did not turn out productive as the North Korean representative unilaterally blamed the U.S. With the word of North Korea’s unilateral attitude spreading, the current in the State Department is flowing in a negative direction.”

According to the source, Special Envoy of the U.S. State Department on Korean Affairs Joseph Detrani delivered the U.S.’ plan concerning North Korea’ nuclear programs to Assistant Ambassador Han Song Ryul of the North Korean mission to the United Nations.

The document comprised specific suggestions for which the U.S. only explained verbally during the third six-party talks this June.

Seung-Ryun Kim srkim@donga.com