Will US Hard Bargaining with South Korea Create an Opening for Pyongyang?

Bottom Line: While the Trump administration has recently pressured South Korea on trade practices, the two nations remain united on pushing North Korea toward denuclearization, despite Pyongyang’s attempts to drive a wedge between the two. It is unlikely that their financial disagreements will disrupt that united front, but the money squabbles could turn South Korean public opinion against the U.S., creating public pressure on the South Korean government to take a harder line with Washington, and a more conciliatory line with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un.

Background: The alliance between South Korea and the United States has supported the peace and prosperity of both nations for more than 60 years.

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