This paper analyzes the potential benefits and risks of a U.S.–North Korea summit for the national security of the Republic of Korea and proposes policy responses for the South Korean government. A U.S.–North Korea summit could enhance crisis stability by reducing the risk of accidental clashes and escalation between the two countries, freeze or reduce North Korea’s nuclear and missile capabilities depending on the outcome of negotiations, and create opportunities for improving inter-Korean relations. In particular, institutionalized risk-reduction measures that meaningfully slow the advancement of North Korea’s nuclear capabilities could have a positive impact on security on the Korean Peninsula.
