Vanguard of European Politics: The Role of Member States in the EU’s Foreign Policy toward North Korea

Abstract

This article raises the question of what the driving force is behind the EU’s North Korea policy. It

then analyzes the policy measures undertaken by the EU towards North Korea on several fronts,

including diplomatic recognition, human rights policy, Korean Energy Development Organization, and

humanitarian aid. The investigation into this case shows that some of member countries lead initiatives

and urge the EU to take action, whereby not only major members but also small members play a

vanguard role.