Possible U.S. Policy Approaches After North Korea’s January 2016 Nuclear Test

This document from the Congressional Research Service (CRS) discusses possible U.S. policy approaches after North Korea's nuclear test in January 2016. The test, announced by North Korea, was condemned by governments worldwide as a violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions. The document highlights the reactions from China and South Korea, noting China's strained relations with North Korea and the potential for China to enforce international sanctions more consistently. It also mentions the enhanced trade and diplomatic relationship between South Korea and China and the potential for trilateral cooperation between the United States, South Korea, and Japan on North Korea's threats.

The document discusses U.S. policy options, including the criticism of the Obama Administration's "strategic patience" policy, which involves expanding sanctions and aligning approaches with South Korea and Japan. Alternatives to this approach include increasing engagement through negotiations or direct channels, although North Korea's refusal to honor prior non-proliferation commitments poses a challenge. The expansion of sanctions to weaken the North Korean economy is another suggested measure, along with enhancing military cooperation with allies and improving ballistic missile defense cooperation.

Congress is presented with several options to consider, such as reinstating North Korea to the State Sponsors of Terrorism list, funding activities to choke North Korea of financial resources, upgrading arrangements like the Proliferation Security Initiative, and increasing law-enforcement measures targeting North Korean illicit activities. The document also mentions offensive options shy of direct military intervention, such as cyberattacks, intelligence upgrades, and spreading anti-regime information to North Korean citizens.