Pre-modern relations between India and Korea are rooted in a rich historical tapestry that highlights the cultural exchanges between the two regions. One of the most notable accounts from this period is found in the 13th-century chronicle, Samguk Yusa. It narrates the story of Queen Heo Hwang-ok, believed to have come from a land known as "Ayuta." Scholars have posited that Ayuta could refer to either Ayodhya or Kanyakumari in India, illustrating a connection that dates back to ancient times. The significance of this connection was reinforced in 2001, when a South Korean delegation dedicated a memorial in Ayodhya to honor the queen, further cementing the historical ties between the countries.
The travels of Hyecho, a Korean Buddhist monk from the Silla kingdom, also underscore the interactions between Korea and India during the pre-modern era. In 723 CE, Hyecho embarked on a journey to India, spurred by the recommendations of his Indian teachers in China. His quest was not merely for pilgrimage but for a deeper understanding of the language and culture of India. He chronicled his adventures in a travelogue titled "Wang ocheonchukguk jeon," which translates to "An account of travel to the five Indian kingdoms." Although it was long considered lost to history, a manuscript resurfaced among the Dunhuang manuscripts in the early 20th century, reigniting interest in this cultural connection.
The historical narrative also includes significant figures like Abu Ali, a merchant from the Ma'bar Sultanate, whose life intertwines with both Indian and Korean histories. After a disagreement with the Ma'bar royal family, he relocated to Yuan dynasty China, where he married a Korean woman. This woman was the widow of a Tibetan named Sangha, whose family also had ties to influential figures in Korea during the Goryeo dynasty. These interconnections not only reflect trade and diplomacy but also the movement of people and cultures across borders.
In the realm of cultural influences, Rabindranath Tagore's poem 'Lamp of the East,' composed in 1929, plays a significant role in highlighting the enduring bond between India and Korea. The poem captures the essence of both nations' rich histories and aspirations for a brighter future. It remains popular to this day, symbolizing the shared cultural heritage and mutual respect that binds India and Korea across centuries. This continuity of cultural appreciation and historical respect underscores the importance of understanding the complex ties that have existed since ancient times, fostering an environment ripe for further collaboration in modern contexts.
Korean War and India's Stance
The Korean War, which erupted in 1950, saw India take a notable but cautious stance as an emerging power on the global stage. Initially, India condemned North Korea's invasion of South Korea, considering it an act of aggression. This condemnation was aligned with its endorsement of UN Security Council resolutions 82 and 83, which aimed to address the crisis. However, in a unique display of non-alignment, India refrained from supporting resolution 84, which advocated for military assistance to South Korea. This decision underscored India's commitment to its principles of non-alignment and its reluctance to engage in military confrontations during the Cold War.
Instead of militarily intervening, India chose to extend its moral support towards United Nations actions in Korea. The Indian government received approval to send a medical unit known as the 60th Indian Field Ambulance Unit to provide humanitarian assistance. Comprised of 346 personnel, including 14 doctors, this medical unit was part of the Indian Airborne Division. Their deployment was emblematic of India's approach to international crises during this period—one that emphasized humanitarian support over military engagement. This medical contingent played a critical role in providing medical care to wounded soldiers and civilians during the conflict, reflecting India's commitment to peace and support for global humanitarian needs.
Beyond its involvement during the war, India also participated in significant post-war diplomatic efforts. Notably, India was the chair of a nine-member United Nations Commission that oversaw elections in the undivided Korea before the war broke out in 1947. After the conflict, India continued to play a crucial diplomatic role as the chair of the Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission, tasked with overseeing the repatriation of prisoners of war in the Korean peninsula. These actions not only highlighted India’s ongoing interest in the region but also established its position as a mediator in international crises. Through these initiatives, India sought to foster peace and stability in Korea while adhering to its policy of non-alignment amidst the intense geopolitical contests of the era.
Recent relations between India and North Korea have historical roots dating back to the establishment of consular relations on 1 March 1962. This engagement developed further when the Consulate General of India in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) was established in October 1968, followed by the Indian Embassy in Pyongyang on 10 December 1973. Both countries are part of the Non-Aligned Movement, which signifies a shared perspective on numerous international matters. India has consistently endeavored to foster dialogue aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula, presenting itself as a potential bridge between North Korea and Western nations.
However, the relationship is complex and has been challenged by North Korea's ties with Pakistan, particularly concerning North Korea's assistance to Pakistan's nuclear missile program. A notable incident in 1999 involved India seizing a North Korean vessel off the coast of Kandla, which was discovered to be transporting missile components and blueprints. This event highlighted India's security concerns regarding regional stability and its commitment to non-proliferation. Compounding these challenges is India’s burgeoning relationship with South Korea, which is characterized by significant economic and technological ties. India actively seeks South Korean investments and technological transfer, a priority that has inadvertently impacted its relations with the North, leading to greater caution in its diplomatic stance.
Moreover, India’s position on North Korea's nuclear ambitions has been clear and consistent, with opposition to the country's nuclear tests and missile launches. This stance aligns with broader international concerns and has contributed to increasing tensions between India and North Korea. In response to a series of United Nations Security Council economic sanctions, as of 7 March 2019, Indian citizens have been prohibited from engaging in capital account transactions with North Korean individuals, and the Indian government mandated that any ongoing investment transactions be liquidated within 180 days of the notification.
The impact of the global pandemic also had repercussions for diplomatic relations. In July 2021, India decided to temporarily close its embassy in Pyongyang, largely due to COVID-19 restrictions affecting travel and operations. The Indian ambassador to North Korea, Atul Gotsurve, ultimately departed the country via a special train through the North Korea–Russia border. This development underscores the multifaceted challenges that characterize India's engagement with North Korea, reflecting the interplay of global health crises, regional security dynamics, and the complexities of international diplomacy.
Trade Dynamics
India's trade with North Korea has undergone significant changes over the years, with notable growth observed since the mid-2000s. Initially, trade between the two nations was minimal, averaging only around $10 million. However, by 2013, this figure surged to approximately $60 million, indicating a robust increase in bilateral trade relations. The dynamics of this trade are largely tilted in India's favor, with Indian exports to North Korea constituting the majority of the trade volume. In 2013, Indian exports were valued at about $60 million, while North Korean exports to India only amounted to $36 million.
One of the key components of India's exports to North Korea includes refined petroleum products, which have played a crucial role in meeting the energy needs of the reclusive nation. In contrast, North Korea primarily exports silver and automobile parts to India, showcasing a trade relationship that is not only economically beneficial but also reflective of the distinct industries and resources prevalent in each country. The participation of Indian businesses in international trade events, such as the sixth Pyongyang Autumn International Trade Fair held in October 2010, further illustrates the efforts made by both nations to foster economic cooperation.
However, the landscape of trade between India and North Korea was dramatically altered due to the imposition of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions aimed at curtailing trade with North Korea, particularly in response to its nuclear ambitions. Since April 2017, these sanctions have placed significant restrictions on all trade with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), except for essential goods such as food and medicine. Consequently, the volume of bilateral trade has experienced a sharp decline, significantly impacting the previously thriving economic exchanges and prompting a reevaluation of trade policies between the two nations. Despite the setbacks posed by international sanctions, both countries may still explore avenues for cooperation in limited areas, thereby maintaining channels of dialogue and engagement.
Food Aid Contributions to North Korea
India has historically played a significant role in addressing food insecurity challenges faced by North Korea. In the early 2000s, specifically in 2002 and 2004, India extended humanitarian assistance by providing 2,000 tonnes of food grains to help the country cope with severe famine-like conditions. This ongoing commitment showcases India's dedication to humanitarian principles and support for nations in distress.
In 2010, responding once again to a request from North Korea, India made a notable contribution of 1,300 tonnes of pulses and wheat, valued at approximately $1 million. This assistance was facilitated through the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), which acts as a key channel for delivering emergency food assistance to countries facing acute food shortages. Such actions by India underline its role as a proactive player in international humanitarian efforts, especially concerning nations struggling with food security.
Further cementing its diplomatic and humanitarian ties, India contributed an additional $1 million to the WFP in 2019. This funding was aimed at enhancing the organization's humanitarian initiatives in North Korea, which has been grappling with chronic food shortages exacerbated by economic instability and environmental challenges. According to the WFP's monthly report released in November 2019, this contribution aimed to intensify South-South and Triangular cooperation to boost support for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). India's engagement demonstrates not only its willingness to assist North Korea during dire times, but also its commitment to collaborative efforts within the international community to address humanitarian crises effectively.
India's food aid contributions reflect a strategic approach to foreign relations, emphasizing humanitarian support while navigating the complexities of diplomacy with North Korea. This dual focus on aid and diplomacy is essential for fostering stability in the region and maintaining India's position as a responsible member of the global community.
Medical Aid
In a demonstration of its commitment to humanitarian assistance, the Indian government recently provided North Korea with $1 million worth of anti-tuberculosis medication. This aid was facilitated in response to a request from the World Health Organization (WHO) and aims to support their ongoing anti-tuberculosis program within the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). In an official release issued by the Indian embassy in Pyongyang, the importance of this medical supply was highlighted, emphasizing India's sensitivity to the critical shortages of medical resources faced by North Korea.
The handover of the medical assistance occurred through a formal ceremony where Indian Ambassador to the DPRK, Atul Malhari Gotsurve, presented the vital medications to North Korean authorities. This gesture marks India's latest effort in a series of humanitarian projects designed to alleviate health challenges in North Korea, where the healthcare infrastructure has faced considerable strain due to various factors, including international sanctions and economic difficulties.
India's medical aid not only underscores its humanitarian approach but also reflects its broader diplomatic ties with North Korea. Historically, India has maintained a non-aligned stance and sought to engage with various nations, including those facing international isolation. The provision of medical assistance aligns with India’s larger foreign policy framework, which emphasizes cooperation in health and humanitarian sectors. By addressing urgent medical needs, India aims to foster goodwill and promote peaceful relations with North Korea, demonstrating its role as a responsible member of the international community.
In April 2015, a notable diplomatic engagement occurred when North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Su Yong visited New Delhi for discussions with Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj. This meeting focused prominently on two critical issues: North Korea's nuclear program and the request for additional humanitarian assistance from India. The meeting was significant given India's long-standing stance advocating for nuclear non-proliferation and regional stability, highlighting the complexities of international diplomacy concerning states with contentious nuclear ambitions.
However, the talks did not culminate in any agreements. One of the reasons for the lack of consensus was North Korea's recent public declaration expressing support for Pakistan, a nation with which India has historically tense relations. This statement by North Korea was viewed in New Delhi as a provocative move, further complicating an already delicate diplomatic landscape. The interplay of these regional relationships underscored the challenges that India faced in its attempts to balance its humanitarian stance with its commitment to non-proliferation and security interests.
The visit and resulting discussions also shed light on North Korea's attempts to seek allies and assistance on the global stage, particularly as it continued to grapple with significant sanctions and economic hardships stemming from its nuclear tests and international isolation. For India, which has often refrained from deep involvement in Korean Peninsula affairs, the engagements reflect its broader foreign policy stance of promoting dialogue and cooperation, while simultaneously upholding its strategic interests in South Asia and beyond. This dynamic illustrates the complexities inherent in international relations where humanitarian and security issues intersect, and the challenges of fostering cooperation amidst conflicting geopolitical allegiances.
Year 2018
In 2018, significant diplomatic engagement between India and North Korea was marked by a meeting on May 15, where General (Retd.) Vijay Kumar Singh, India's Minister of State for External Affairs, held talks with high-ranking officials from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). This meeting included discussions with DPRK's Vice President, Kim Yong-dae, as well as the Foreign and Culture Ministers. The meeting highlighted India’s continued commitment to fostering diplomatic relations with North Korea amid a backdrop of regional tensions and ongoing international dialogues surrounding the Korean Peninsula.
This engagement can be seen in the context of India's broader foreign policy strategy, which emphasizes non-alignment and engagement with various nations irrespective of their global standing. India maintains a historical relationship with North Korea that dates back to the period of significant Cold War alliances. While India's relations with the DPRK were primarily focused on cultural and historical ties, the recent developments indicated a renewed interest in strategic dialogues that could address regional security matters, nuclear disarmament, and humanitarian concerns.
In addition to diplomatic overtures, there were also undercurrents of India's interest in economic cooperation with North Korea. Although the international sanctions imposed on North Korea have restricted considerable trade and investment opportunities, India has cautiously maintained its dialogue with the DPRK, attempting to carve out spaces for cooperation in sectors like agriculture and technology. This delicate balance of maintaining a relationship while adhering to international norms showcases India's strategic foresight in dealing with complex geopolitical scenarios prevalent in East Asia.
As 2018 unfolded, the global diplomatic landscape surrounding North Korea was rapidly changing, particularly following North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s meetings with leaders from South Korea and the United States. India’s efforts to engage in dialogue during this transformative period underscored its role as a significant player that could potentially influence peace initiatives in the region. This continued dialogue emphasized the importance of multilateral efforts in addressing shared security challenges, contributing to a more stable environment on the Korean Peninsula and in the broader Asia-Pacific region.