Why Pressuring Thailand on North Korea Misses the Mark – The Diplomat

In 2017, the U.S. urged Thailand to take action against North Korean enterprises, but Thailand, prioritizing neutrality and pragmatism, has minimal leverage over North Korea due to negligible trade ties and lack of military and diplomatic connections. As North Korea’s nuclear provocations escalate, Thailand’s stance of non-involvement in the conflict remains firm, leading to the country inadvertently becoming a transit point for North Korean defectors seeking asylum in South Korea. Despite international pressure, Thailand’s reluctance to engage with North Korea persists, reflecting its strategic focus on maintaining bilateral relations and avoiding unnecessary tensions.

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