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Now,... the nation is all ears for President Park's upcoming speech in the German city
of Dresden, where she is expected to unveil her vision for reunification on the Korean
peninsula. The location plays a significant role... since
Korea looks at Germany's unification as a model for its own.
Our Kwon Soa tells us... what we can learn from the German case, and what challenges
remain. Similar in many ways, but different in others.
For a long time, the case of Germany's unification has been seen as a possible model for unification
on the Korean peninsula. However, the biggest difference between Korea
and Germany is, the DIFFERENCE between South and North Korea.
While East Germans were practically crying out for unification, South and North Koreans
are divided on the issue. This is why analysts say trust will play a
big role in laying the groundwork for a successful unification.
"Trust from the North Korean people, trust from the international community, and then
trust from our ourselves. These three trust factors combined will make unification possible."
Experts say the difference between the culture and lifestyle of the two Koreas must be transformed
into a sense of intimacy, without pressing the North's people to change.
South Koreans need to be convinced unification will enhance Korea's image, attract foreign
investment and eventually make a stronger economy.
Also, just like Britain, France, and the U.S. agreed to Germany's reunification, Korea must
receive consensus from nations concerned -- namely the U.S., Japan, China, and Russia.
Although experts do not think Koreas will become one overnight, like in Germany's case,
there are lessons to be learned.
"Germany did not actually prepare for a reunification... but as West Germany liquidated the Nazis they
achieved a civil society and transparent politics, which eventually made them an advanced democratic
nation. Also, they achieved the miracle on the Rhine River, that made them a world
economic leader."
North Korea's weak economy means the North would gain a great deal through reunification,
but its constant provocations and unpredictability could prove a thorn in the side of progress
on the matter. Experts say that, while North Korea has expressed
an interest in reunification, it doesn't want to play second fiddle to the South during
the process. Kwon Soa, Arirang News.