South Korea and Cuba establish diplomatic relations after 65 years

In a sudden turn in the global diplomatic stage, South Korea and Cuba announced the establishment of their official diplomatic relations after more than 65 years of distance. The announcement took place in New York on February 14, in what represents an event that has surprised many international observers due to its proximity to one of the most important dates for North Korea, the "Day of the Shining Sun," the birthday of Kim Jong-il, father of leader Kim Jong-un. Rumors about this rapprochement had been circulating in diplomatic circles, especially due to the persistent efforts of the South Korean government to improve ties with Cuba. However, the close relations between Cuba and North Korea became a major obstacle to achieving this goal. The Ministry of Unification of South Korea, in a recent press statement, pointed out that the negotiations for the reestablishment of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Cuba were carried out under exceptionally difficult conditions and with a high level of confidentiality. "The establishment of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Cuba is considered a diplomatic victory for the country, which has been working to expand its presence in the international community, and is expected to be seen as a painful mistake for North Korea," the Ministry of Unification of South Korea stated in its press release. The reestablishment of relations between South Korea and Cuba comes just before a significant date for North Korea, the "Day of the Shining Sun," adding an additional element of strategic interest to the situation. For some specialists, the detail of resuming relations with Cuba, which called itself the "sister country" of North Korea, is perceived as a setback and a harsh blow against Pyongyang, which has experienced increasing diplomatic isolation in recent times. On the other hand, Cuba apparently would like to present itself as a leader in international politics. "The new generations of Cubans, although they will not resolve to return to democracy, want modernity, and South Korea will replace the outdated automotive park it currently has. Cuba is aware of the economic situation of North Korea, with no room to politically dissuade at the current moment. Kim Jong-un knows about the financial problem he is facing, which does not allow him to control anything. The dependence on Pyongyang has not been overlooked by Cuba," explains internationalist and Peruvian professor Miguel Rodríguez Mackay to El Comercio. This, combined with the closure of several embassies in traditional allied countries and the provocative behavior of the North Korean regime in the international context, could be causing concern and distrust among third world nations, adds Seoul. "It must be added that Cuba knows that North Korea depends predominantly on China all the time and that, although its nuclear power remains a mystery, it is no longer in a position to persuade or influence as before. We also add that the health of the North Korean leader remains a mystery. North Korea continues to be alone in the world," Rodríguez Mackay points out regarding the perception of North Korea at this moment. North Korea's hostile policy towards the South has led many non-aligned countries to take sides, which in turn has influenced economic relations with both Korean countries. This situation has been exacerbated by North Korea's continuous provocations, including missile and military satellite launches, despite the economic difficulties and food shortages facing its population. Finally, the establishment of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Cuba could have severe repercussions for officials of the North Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, something that concerns human rights advocates. Seoul indicates that the trend of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to blame his subordinates for diplomatic and economic failures could have a negative outcome for his officials, as has happened in the past. "After the failed negotiation with President Trump, Kim Jong-un punished several diplomats, including Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho, for the problems that arose after the meeting. In addition, after his monetary reform failed in 2009 and resentment among the population increased, he blamed Pak Nam-gi, head of the Workers' Party Economic Department, and executed him," highlights the Ministry of Unification of South Korea. Taking into account these factors and the constant increase in the number of elite defectors, such as North Korean diplomats in recent years to South Korea, the internal dynamics of Kim Jong-un's Workers' Party could be experiencing a weakening that Seoul seems to be aware of.