Historical Background
The partnership between China and North Korea is rooted in a shared heritage, socialist ideology, and mutual interests.
Established in 1949, the Sino-North Korean Friendship and Alliance Treaty formed the political foundation of their relationship. In 1950, China entered the Korean War on North Korea’s behalf to prevent the collapse of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).
After the war, the Chinese-North Korean alliance remained close, both politically and economically. Although China supported reforms in the 1980s that opened its economy to the Western World, North Korean leaders preferred a more closed model. Consequently, China is today North Korea’s only ally and remains a major source of political, economic and military support.
Economics
North Korea is highly dependent on Chinese economic assistance due to the hermetic nature of their economy. According to some estimates, around 80-90% of North Korea’s external trade is with China. This trade, in the form of goods and services, is vital for North Korea’s sustenance, particularly in the wake of the international financial sanctions.
China also provides North Korea with food, fuel and other goods. In a period of famine and widespread poverty in North Korea, these imports are essential for North Korea’s survival. Finally, China has allowed North Korea access to the global financial system, a crucial lifeline for North Korea’s economy.
Politics
China supports the North Korean government with moral, political, and diplomatic weapons. Historically, China’s influence has been a source of stability in the region, and this support has allowed North Korea to stay off the world’s radar. China is indifferent to North Korea’s nuclearization, unless it directly affects China’s interests.
The relationship between the two countries is further strengthened by the ongoing Six-Party Talks, which began in 2003. With its support, North Korea has managed to survive and even thrive since its establishment six decades ago.
Military
China provides North Korea with military supplies and training. North Korean soldiers and officers also frequently train in China. In addition, North Korea has been heavily supplied with military hardware from China, such as heavy tanks, artillery, and small arms. China is said to have been the source of North Korea’s nuclear weapons and the main military supporter of North Korea.
In 2017, North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un visited China and met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. During the visit, he is said to have discussed military cooperation between their two countries, as well as other issues such as economic collaboration.
Geography
Geography is another factor contributing to the Chinese-North Korean alliance. North Korea and China share a long land border. This has allowed the Chinese-North Korean relationship to be closer than the ones other countries share.
It has also led to closer economic ties between the two countries, as Chinese companies have invested in North Korean infrastructure projects, such as roads and railways. This has allowed China to gain access to resources that are located near the border, including minerals and timber.
Moreover, the Yalu and Tumen rivers border North Korea and China, respectively. These rivers play an important role in North Korea’s economy and trade. This has further increased the political and economic ties between the two countries.
Culture
Cultural ties between the two countries have also strengthened the alliance. North Korean and Chinese leaders regularly exchange visits and North Korea’s cult of personality frequently makes references to the Chinese Revolution and Chinese leaders. North Korea’s state media also broadcasts pro-Chinese propaganda.
Moreover, the two countries have many shared experiences, such as the Korean War and Chinese economic reforms. North Korea’s leaders have looked to China as a source of inspiration and guidance as they have sought to develop their own economy.
North Korea has even adopted aspects of Chinese culture, such as traditional medicine, Confucianism, literature, cuisine and architecture. Similarly, China has adopted various aspects of North Korean culture, such as their language and martial arts.
Regional Security
China is an important partner for North Korea in terms of regional security. The Chinese-North Korean alliance serves as a counterbalance to the United States, Japan and South Korea’s alliance. Without the alliance, North Korea would be vulnerable to a potential attack from these countries.
Furthermore, the alliance helps to maintain the stability in the region. China is a strong supporter of North Korea’s government and believes that a strong and stable North Korea helps to maintain peace and stability in the region.
China also helps North Korea to remain independent in the face of international pressure. North Korea is a key buffer state between China and U.S.-backed South Korea, and China does not want to see their neighbor succumb to U.S. influence.
Finally, the alliance serves as a diplomatic bridge between North Korea and the rest of the world. Through its support, China can use its influence to encourage North Korea to take an active role in regional and global affairs.
