Sweden–Democratic People’s Republic of Korea Diplomatic Relations – A History

Abstract

Sweden is frequently referred to as the “bridge to the West” of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK, commonly referred to as North Korea) due to its long-standing and reliable diplomatic presence in Pyongyang. Sweden was the first Western country to open an embassy in the DPRK in 1975, and it is still one of the few European nations with a presence there. Using its historical neutrality and stable engagement with Pyongyang, Sweden has taken on the crucial duty of promoting the interests of several countries involved in the security dynamics on the Korean Peninsula, particularly the United States of America (USA) and the Republic of Korea (ROK, commonly referred to as South Korea). This backgrounder outlines how Sweden has established itself as a reliable partner of the DPRK via ongoing engagement and constructive communication.

Sweden’s commitment has benefited other nations, particularly the U.S., by providing a key “window” into one of the world’s most isolated countries. Furthermore, Sweden, as the protecting power of the U.S. has facilitated high-level dialogues between Washington and Pyongyang, as well as ensured the release of several American citizens. This backgrounder delves deeper into the historical relationship between Sweden and the DPRK, with an emphasis on how Sweden’s role on the Korean Peninsula has developed as a result of its consistent engagement with Pyongyang. This includes Sweden’s Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission mandate, humanitarian assistance, and role as the Protecting Power of, among others, the United States.

Introduction

Sweden is frequently referred to as the “bridge to the West” of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK, commonly referred to as North Korea) due to its long-standing and reliable diplomatic presence in Pyongyang. Sweden was the first Western country to open an embassy in the DPRK in 1975, and it is still one of the few European nations with a presence there. Using its historical neutrality and stable engagement with Pyongyang, Sweden has taken on the crucial duty of promoting the interests of several countries involved in the security dynamics on the Korean Peninsula, particularly the United States of America (USA) and the Republic of Korea (ROK, commonly referred to as South Korea). Such efforts include, Stockholm frequently hosting high-level, “off-the-record” meetings between DPRK officials and Western diplomats to de-escalate tensions, which include the working-level talks leading up to the 2018 Trump-Kim summit.