International Relations Researches

International Relations Researches

The Approach of North Korea towards China and the United States; Governance in a sustainable process of Friendly and Hostile Relations

Authors
Hamid Ahmadinejad 1
mahdi zolfaghari 2
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science and International Relations, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran
2 Associate Professor of International Relations in the Division Asian Studies, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran
10.22034/irr.2026.254674
Abstract
During the Korean War, a bipolar dynamic emerged, with China backing North Korea and the United States supporting South Korea. This model has significantly influenced North Korea’s foreign policy, creating a framework characterized by interaction with China and confrontation with the United States. China’s primary goal has been to ensure the survival of the North Korean regime, even amid difficulties in their bilateral relations. In contrast, the United States perceives North Korea as a threat to global stability. These differing priorities have led to a unique strategic culture in North Korea’s relationships with both China and the United States. Therefore, the central question of this research is: What motivates North Korea’s foreign policy, considering its dual approach of interaction with China and confrontation with the United States? Drawing on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs theory and employing a descriptive-analytical method, the research findings indicate that North Korea’s engagement with China addresses its Deficiency Needs—specifically, economic stability, security, and relief from isolation. Meanwhile, its confrontational stance towards the United States fulfills its Growth Needs, such as self-esteem, respect, and military development.
Keywords
North Korea, China, America, Maslow&rsquo
s Hierarchy