{"id":8122,"date":"2023-11-08T02:40:16","date_gmt":"2023-11-08T01:40:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.northkoreainfo.com\/?p=8122"},"modified":"2023-11-08T02:40:16","modified_gmt":"2023-11-08T01:40:16","slug":"why-is-china-supporting-north-korea","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.northkoreainfo.com\/why-is-china-supporting-north-korea\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Is China Supporting North Korea"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Background Information<\/h2>\n

China is a long-standing ally of North Korea. After the 1950-53 Korean War, Chinese forces remained in the North to support the Kim dynasty. Trade between the two countries has remained strong throughout the decades, and there is a sense of camaraderie and shared goals. It is often said that China “owns” North Korea, and this close relationship has provided North Korea with economic and military support.<\/p>\n

Economic Benefits<\/h2>\n

China sees North Korea as an important economic partner. North Korea’s proximity to China makes it a convenient location to access natural resources, such as minerals and timber which can be shipped back to China. Additionally, the North Korean economy provides a low wage workforce, which allows Chinese companies to sub-contract labor-intensive work to North Korean businesses. This means that Chinese businesses can benefit from lower overheads while still making a profit.<\/p>\n

Geopolitical Interests<\/h2>\n

North Korea also provides China access to the Sea of Japan, as well as a strategic buffer between China and its more democratic neighbor, South Korea. China does not want to see a unified Korea that is aligned with the United States. As a result, it is keen to maintain the status quo and prevent the country from unifying with South Korea. <\/p>\n

Military Support<\/h2>\n

China has provided military assistance to North Korea since the Korean War, and the two countries have traditionally enjoyed close military ties. China has provided North Korea with assistance in the form of weapons and equipment, and has been willing to come to its assistance in the event of a conflict with the United States or South Korea. This military assistance has enabled North Korea to maintain its independence and has emboldened its leaders.<\/p>\n

The Human Rights Issues<\/h2>\n