sunshine policy

Korean history

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July 16, 2026

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The "sunshine policy" was a period of engagement between South Korea and North Korea aimed at improving relations and fostering eventual reunification. Initiated by South Korean President Kim Dae-Jung in the late 1990s, this policy encouraged dialogue, economic cooperation, and humanitarian exchanges, such as family reunions. A significant milestone was the 2000 summit between Kim Dae-Jung and North Korean leader Kim Jong Il, leading to joint projects like the Kaesong industrial complex. Despite initial progress, relations soured as North Korea continued its nuclear weapons program, leading to renewed tensions.123

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South Korea
The Sixth Republic
Kim implemented a so-called “sunshine” policy toward the North, which led in 2000 to a historic summit between Kim and North Korean leader Kim Jong Il and to Kim Dae-Jung’s selection as the recipient of that year’s Nobel Prize for Peace. Nevertheless, his administration was also plagued by corruption…
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Kim implemented a so-called “sunshine” policy toward the North, which led in 2000 to a historic summit between Kim and North Korean leader Kim Jong Il and to Kim Dae-Jung’s selection as the recipient of that year’s Nobel Prize for Peace. Nevertheless, his administration was also plagued by corruption…
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Moon Jae-In
Role in the Roh Moo-Hyun administration
…represented a continuation of the “sunshine” policy initiated by Roh’s predecessor, Kim Dae-Jung.
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…represented a continuation of the “sunshine” policy initiated by Roh’s predecessor, Kim Dae-Jung.
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