Nuclear Program of North Korea: Impact of US Economic Sanctions

Abstract

This study examined the impacts of U.S. economic sanctions on North Korea’s nuclear program, ballistic missile development, and humanitarian situation, with attention to regional power dynamics involving China, Japan, and South Korea. The major aim of the United States' sanctions access to restrict North Korea’s international trade, finance, and technology to deter nuclear and ballistic missile development. However, unilateral restrictions have deepened the nation’s economic isolation and dependence on China, complicating regional conditions. The Qualitative, descriptive, evolutionary, and case study methodology was used for the in-depth analysis of the DPRK. Sanctions do not limit the nuclear ambitions, but the state’s dependence on China has increased. DPRK faces a humanitarian crisis; 60% of the population is absolutely poor. Regional tensions have intensified, affecting Japan and South Korea’s security environment. Adoption of multilateral engagement, conditional economic incentives, and humanitarian exemptions is recommended to reduce suffering while encouraging diplomatic resolution.