What’s Driving The Peace Process In Korea?
One very important aspect is the stance of the South Korean (ROK) government. President Moon Jae-in came to power last year on the basis of a campaign promising, among other things, a serious bid to improve relations with the DPRK. Moon, a former student activist and human rights lawyer, represents the most progressive wing of mainstream South Korean politics (admittedly this is not saying much) and was mentored by Kim Dae-jung, author of the 'Sunshine Policy,' which aimed to build understanding and de-escalate tensions with the DPRK.
While essentially pro-United States, Moon is on record as saying that "South Korea should adopt diplomacy in which it can discuss a U.S. request and say no to the Americans."