Problems in South Korea

by Political Cyclone in Politics, August 26, 2009

With the growing problems with South Korea’s space program, this brief article argues for a increase in USA and European involvment.

The case for increase American assistance of South Korea?

It has been widely reported that the South Korean satellite program suffered a setback today, with their imaginatively named : ‘space vehicle one’ failing to deploy at the correct altitude. It may well be wondered what concern is it of the western powers that South Korea’s space programs are suffering difficulties. One could certainly make a case that it was non of our collective concerns. However I would argue that there are two basic reasons which would suggest that the USA and Europe should be actively involved:

Firstly the concern is over the issues with North Korea. It is more than clear that North Korea posses no significant threat to the western powers. However, it does represent a pest, and irritation to be dealt with, and when there is an irritation, it requires thought and resources to deal with. By empowering South Korea , we can set up a local balance to North Korea, and thus resolve ourselves of the responsibility of taking action, and limit the publicity of North Korea’s actions to a local, irrelevant level.

Secondarily we must not be complacent about a possible resurgence of Russia as a world power. Therefore the assistance that Russia has provided to South Korea, must be views as a methods to gain influence in the area, and thus a threat to the western powers. It is of vital importance therefore that we do now allow a slip in our Asian power base. Therefore we must provide the resources necessary for Europe and the USA to continue as the main player in the area, and the first and last place that nations look to for guidance.