[yongers]

As a South Korean, I find it hard to completely agree with the above statement. It is true that the desire for unification is not as strong as they were.. say.. 30 years ago. As you have pointed out, the younger generation in particular, have no experience of a unified korean peninsula and are not as eager for a unified Korea. But to say that Koreans "don't want" a unified Korea while the "the world wants them to unite" is a gross misrepresentation.

Just for the sake of correctness, a quick google search will reveal that a significant proportion (often majority) of the Korean population still feel that reunification should take place (as an example, according to Asan Institute this figure was at 63.5% as of April 2014). I hasten to add however that the younger generations (those that are below 40) are significantly less eager. Another thing to realise is that majority of Koreans do NOT consider North Koreans as an enemy. In fact (quoting again from the figures released by Asan Institute), 77.6% of the Korean population had either positive (43.8%) or neutral (23.8%) stance towards North Korea.

The road to Korean unification is a difficult one for sure. I cannot disagree with the comment that some of the issues regarding Korean unification lie with the South Korean attitude towards North Korea. But, as many have mentioned, there are other powers at work here too. Chinese and US interests (as well as that of Russia and Japan to a lesser extent) are major stumbling blocks that neither South Korean nor the North Korean governments can ignore.

Being a South Korean, it is my single greatest dream to see a unified Korea. It is painful to see that there are those from my own country that do not feel the same way. It is even more painful to see how powerless we are to shape our own country's destiny. Throughout history, Korea (unified or not) has often been used as a political pawn by its stronger neighbours. I hope, and pray, that things turn out somewhat differently and that both Koreas can unify peacefully to end this status quo.

[noobermin]

Thank you. That's a very refreshing comment to hear. I don't believe I really meant to say that South Koreans see the North as an enemy but I can see it being understandable that one would feel more lukewarm about being reunited with a group that seems to hate you so much. I think that's why I really appreciate you saying this, because you dream for peace while many see and experience strife. That's very admirable.

Honestly, I personally think it would be almost romantic to see your country reunited. However, I'm not Korean, so I have no right to tell you reunion is right, or not right, and I'm concerned that sometimes, us as westerners seem to assume that this is best for this or that country, even when those in that country wish for something else. Either way, I wish you all the best.

[thaumasiotes]

43.8 + 23.8 is 67.6, not 77.6.

[yongers]

good point! my bad. just checked the source. it is 53.8% and 23.8% respectively. Would make the correction on the original post but seems that it's too late for me to make the correction now.