The Kaesong Industrial Complex has seen its fair share of ups and downs as relations between North and South Korea fluctuated over the years, but Seoul’s recent move to dissolve the foundation governing the inter-Korean initiative could prove to be the final nail in its coffin.
For over a decade, South Korean companies operating at the DPRK border city of Kaesong employed North Korean laborers to produce everything from clothing to semiconductors. But the complex that opened in 2004 has been suspended since 2016 and looks unlikely to ever reopen as the DPRK reportedly repurposes ROK assets left behind.
The Kaesong Industrial Complex has seen its fair share of ups and downs as relations between North and South Korea fluctuated over the years, but Seoul’s recent move to dissolve the foundation governing the inter-Korean initiative could prove to be the final nail in its coffin.
For over a decade, South Korean companies operating at the DPRK border city of Kaesong employed North Korean laborers to produce everything from clothing to semiconductors. But the complex that opened in 2004 has been suspended since 2016 and looks unlikely to ever reopen as the DPRK reportedly repurposes ROK assets left behind.
Become a member for less
than $5.75 per week.
-
Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations,
analysis
-
The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in
the loop
-
Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
-
Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting,
investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe
now
All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.