https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20221018_16/
Summary: For the first time since 2017, North Korea has blown nuclear missiles over Japan. In retaliation, Japan has opted to sanction 5 more North Korean-based organizations related to the production of North Korean nuclear missiles. Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary stated that Japan will not tolerate North Korea’s threat to their peace and security. The assets of these companies within Japan will now be frozen indefinitely. Japan’s move comes after South Korea and the United States had also conducted unilateral sanctions on the country. Furthermore, Japan has vowed to work with the United States and South Korea to convince the international community to support the denuclearization of North Korea.
Analysis: Japan has clearly been caught off guard by North Korea resuming its nuclear testing, as it was late to the party to actually sanction these organizations. North Korea is attempting to project its military power to strengthen their position in the region and increase their defense, even if they likely do not have the military capacity to actually win in a prolonged conflict. These displays still invoke fear onto westerners, which is exactly what the country needs for leverage. However, this projection likely only further polarizes the isolated country to its bloc with China and Russia, which remain its only true “allies.” Sanctions have not historically discouraged North Korea from reducing nor halting nuclear testing, even when such sanctions have put thousands of more of its population into extreme poverty. The efforts to denuclearize North Korea are futile, as no country is willing to give up its defensive capabilities. History shows this is foolish, just ask Ukraine.
Connection to Class: North Korea’s projection follows the military power rule of realist theory. It uses its threats of nuclear strikes on Japan, South Korea, or even the United States’ mainland or nuclear Armageddon to deter western states from invading them or funding efforts to topple their government. Furthermore, North Korea has created a security dilemma, where their nuclearization has made the U.S. and other adversaries of North Korea consider giving nuclear warheads to South Korea to deter Kim’s aggression. South Korea has also increased military exercises and drills relating to a potential outbreak of a conflict with its northern neighbor.