Even during long periods in which North Korean and U.S. have had little contact, it would be inaccurate to say that North Koreans and Americans are not talking about the North’s nuclear program.

So-called Track II diplomacy – defined as unofficial dialogue involving non-state actors, frequently influential ones under fewer restrictions than high-ranking government officials – has been under way for decades, seeking to help the process of official talks over North Korean nukes, among other subjects.