North Korean Energy Future

Increased dependence on Middle East oil is a common concern for all countries in the region. Such concern could lead to regional tensions, which are already visible between China and Japan. Power shortages in China, North Korea and possibly in South Korea in the near future may be solved by coordinated energy security policies, such as joint development of transmission lines and pipeline in the region. North Korea’s energy shortage is a serious concern for both North Korea and the region. It is imperative for countries in the region to coordinate their policies to help minimizing the energy shortage in North Korea, in a way consistent with nuclear non-proliferation interests.