Scott Snyder, a Senior Fellow for Korea Studies at CFR, highlights that the inclusion of the “China factor” as a shared security concern has established a new milestone for a strengthened U.S.-ROK-Japan trilateral cooperation. However, Snyder warns that deepening trilateral defense coordination will induce closer DPRK-Russia-China cooperation, thereby alleviating DPRK’s isolation in the international community and weakening the authority and integrity of the UN sanctions. As illustrated by the recent visit of the Russian and Chinese representatives to DPRK in light of the “War Victory Day” as well as the Putin-Kim Jong Un Summit, Snyder concludes that the rise of a tit-for-tat cycle between the two coalitions will become a new reality on the Peninsula.

Kyong Hui Choi, president of the South and North Development (SAND) Institute, explains that Kim Jong Un’s decision to showcase his young daughter, Kim Ju Ae, to the public reflects his desire to secure absolute authority in the North Korean society by elevating himself as the “Great Father of the People.” Recalling that Kim Jong Il first appeared as a devout son and embodiment of loyalty to Kim Il Sung, Choi claims that Kim Jong Un aims to utilize his daughter as a means to force unconditional loyalty and piety from the people by introducing an additional concept of “filial piety” toward the leader. Furthermore, by arguing that Kim Ju Ae’s public appearances imply an exacerbation of the sanctification of the “Paektu bloodline” and a lack of willingness to denuclearize, Choi urges the international community to address DPRK’s nuclear and human rights issues concurrently.

Eunjung Lim, a Professor of International Studies at Kongju National University, identifies the reaffirmation of a commitment to complete denuclearization of DPRK, a clearer strategic position toward China, and the common goal of institutionalizing trilateral cooperation as the key outcomes of the ROK-U.S.-Japan Summit at Camp David. However, she highlights that South Korea, the United States, and Japan all face domestic political controversies that complicate effective cooperation. Lim urges the three leaders to garner public support within their respective countries and build on the current momentum of trilateral cooperation.