This annotated chronology is based on the data sources that follow each entry. Public sources often provide conflicting information on classified military programs. In some cases we are unable to resolve these discrepancies, in others we have deliberately refrained from doing so to highlight the potential influence of false or misleading information as it appeared over time. In many cases, we are unable to independently verify claims. Hence in reviewing this chronology, readers should take into account the credibility of the sources employed here.
Inclusion in this chronology does not necessarily indicate that a particular development is of direct or indirect proliferation significance. Some entries provide international or domestic context for technological development and national policymaking. Moreover, some entries may refer to developments with positive consequences for nonproliferation.
Late 1990s
North Korea begins to develop a gas centrifuge uranium enrichment capability.
--Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., "Exposing North Korea's Secret Nuclear Infrastructure-Part Two," Jane's Intelligence Review, August 1999, p. 45.
1996
The Philippines donates $150,000 to Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO).
--Joel Vega, "Philippines: Manila Considers Funds to Dismantle N. Korea Reactors," Inter Press Service, 22 July 1997, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
January 1996
Russian officials from the Foreign Ministry and Atomic Energy Ministry issue a report stating that between 1991 and 1994 North Korea tested high explosive nuclear warhead triggering devices over 70 times. The report also claims that North Korea is storing up to 22kg of plutonium at a facility in Yongbyon-kun.
--Seoul Sinmun, 5 January 1996, in "South Korean Paper Quotes Russian Report on North's Nuclear Intentions," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 6 January 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Yu Min, "'Pukhan Haekkaebal P'ogiannunda'/Seoul Shinmun, Russia Chongbu P'yonkkabogoso Ipsu," Taehan Maeil, 5 January 1996, p. 2, in KINDS, www.kinds.or.kr.
9 January 1996
South Korean officials announce that North Korea has started transferring 8,000 spent fuel rods to special steel containers sealed in a concrete casing. The spent fuel rods, necessary for determining the amount of plutonium North Korea has reprocessed, have been slowly corroding in a cooling pond since they were removed from a 5MW(e) reactor in May 1994. Under the Agreed Framework, the spent fuel rods are to be moved out of North Korea for inspection and safe storage upon completion of the first light water reactor.
--"N. Korea Preserving Spent Nuclear Fuel in Containers," Japan Economic Newswire, 9 January 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "North Korea Begins Work to Safeguard Spent Fuel Rods," Associated Press, 9 January 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Chosun Ilbo, 10 January 1995, p. 2, in "North Starts Dry Storage of Spent Fuel," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 11 January 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
13 January 1996
A South Korean official announces that Pyongyang will allow seven members of the third Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) survey team to remain in North Korea for an additional 38 days. The team was unable to complete the necessary geological survey work, including measuring the depth of the sea off the coast of Shinp'o, within the scheduled time. The third KEDO survey team arrived in North Korea on 16 December, but instead of departing on 16 January as scheduled, the seven members who were granted extensions will remain in Shinp'o until 23 February and work with the fourth survey team, which is scheduled to arrive on 16 January.
--Chosun Ilbo, 14 January 1996, p. 2, in "Extended Stay Granted to Energy Body's Third Survey Team," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 16 January 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
14 January 1996
The Chinese freighter Yanlong IV departs Pusan, South Korea carrying seismic and drilling tools to Shinp'o, North Korea for the month-long Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) survey mission scheduled to begin 16 January. [Note: The survey materials are shipped to Najin and then transported to Shinp'o by rail.]
--Kim Jae Hwan, "First Shipment of Equipment for Nuclear Plants Sails to North Korea," Agence France Presse, 14 January 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Reuters, "South Korea Sends Reactor Gear to North," New York Times, 15 January 1996, p. A6, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 9 January 1996, in "Fourth KEDO Site Inspection Team to Visit North on 17th January," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 11 January 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
16 January-23 February 1996
The fourth Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) survey team travels to Shinp'o, North Korea. The 20-member team, consisting of 17 South Koreans, two Americans and one Japanese, conducts various geological tests at the proposed site for two light water reactors. During the month long mission, the team tests the quality of the earth using seismological and drilling equipment.
--"US-Led Nuclear Survey Team Arrives in North Korea," Agence France Presse, 16 January 1996, in Lexis-Nexi , <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 14 January 1996, in "Energy Body Dispatches Fourth Site Survey Team to North," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 15 January 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "KEDO Survey Team Leaves DPRK," Xinhua News Agency, 24 February 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
24-29 January 1996
An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) delegation meets with representatives from the General Department of Atomic Energy in Pyongyang to continue talks on North Korea's suspended nuclear operations. During the talks, the IAEA delegation visits the Yongbyon Nuclear Complex and verifies that Pyongyang has not resumed nuclear activities. Talks conclude on 29 January 1996, and North Korea agrees that the IAEA may conduct routine and ad hoc inspections of its operational nuclear sites.
--"IAEA Delegation Arrives in Pyongyang," Xinhua News Agency, 23 January 1996, in Lexis-Nexis , web.lexis-nexis.com; Ivan Zakharchenko, "DPRK Agrees to Inspections of Nuke Research Facilities," ITAR-TASS, 30 January 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "Puk, Shingo Haekshisol Sach'al Hoyong/Kyongsuro Hyopchong Ttarrunkot," Chosun Ilbo, 31 January 1996, p. 2, in KINDS, www.kinds.or.kr.
February 1996
France pledges $2 million to Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO).
--"France Offers to Join Int'l Nuclear Program on N. Korea," Japan Economic Newswire, 2 February 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
February 1996
Japan agrees to pay approximately $19 million for heavy fuel oil to be delivered to North Korea in April. Under the Agreed Framework, the United States shoulders the responsibility of financing the 500,000 tons/year of heavy fuel oil to meet North Korea's energy needs until the completion of two light water reactors. However, due to delays in enacting the necessary funding bill in Congress, several US officials, including US Ambassador to Japan Walter Mondale and Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) Director General Stephen Bosworth, have requested that Tokyo temporarily share some of the cost.
--"Japan to Pay for Fuel Supply to N. Korea," Jiji Press Ticker Service, 22 February 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Japan Paying 19 M. Dlrs for N. Korean Fuel," Jiji Press Ticker Service, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
February 1996
The US and South Korea conduct 10-day joint naval exercises off South Korea's east coast and a joint bombing exercises north of Seoul. Pyongyang claims that the military exercises are preparations for war and condemns the bombing tests as target practice for dropping nuclear bombs on North Korea. While the United States and South Korea have refrained from holding the highly contentious Team Spirit exercise since the signing of the Agreed Framework, North Korea has warned that any US-South Korean joint military exercises threaten the success of the agreement.
--U.S., South Korea to Conduct Joint Maneuvers amid Tension," Associated Press, 9 February 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Korean Central Broadcasting Station (Pyongyang), 23 February 1996, in "Commentator Justifies New Peace Mechanism Proposal," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 26 February 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
14 February 1996
The South Korean Defense Ministry announces that the joint US-South Korean military exercise Team Spirit will be cancelled for the third year in a row. According to a Ministry spokesman, "The decision has been made to create a more positive atmosphere for the security situation on the Korean Peninsula and as a confidence-building measure for North Korea's implementation of the Geneva nuclear agreement." However, the Ministry claims that the exercise will resume in 1997 if North Korea does not adhere to the Agreed Framework or threatens military aggression against South Korea.
--"Joint U.S.-South Korean Military Exercises Cancelled," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 14 February 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "South Korea, U.S. Not to Hold Joint Maneuver," Xinhua News Agency, 14 February 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "S. Korea, U.S. Will Not Hold Joint Exercises This Year," Japan Economic Newswire, 14 February 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
26 February 1996
The European Union pledges $6.25 million to Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO).
--"EU to Fund N. Korean Nuclear Agency," United Press International, 26 February 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "EU to Provide 6.3 Mil. Dlrs to KEDO," Japan Economic Newswire, 27 February 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
10 March 1996
KBS Radio in Seoul cites the Taiwanese newspaper Lien Ho Pao as having reported that Taiwan's Kaoshiung port authorities seized 35 tons of nuclear material from a North Korean ship that was en route to Pakistan. The report says Taiwanese authorities are waiting for the results of tests on a material believed to be nitroglycerin. [Note: This report is unsubstantiated and "nitroglycerin," is not a "nuclear material;" however, it could be used in the high-explosive triggering device in a bomb. It is unclear whether this shipment is related to nuclear weapons development.]
--KBS Radio (Seoul), 10 March 1996, in "Taiwan Police Seize 'Nuclear Material' from North Korean Ship," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 11 March 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
10 March 1996
North Korea says that US and South Korea have not actually cancelled the Team Spirit military exercise as they had claimed. The Rodong Sinmun, official daily of the Korean Workers' Party, charges that Team Spirit has merely been replaced by recent naval and bombing exercises.
--"'Team Spirit' Drills Replaced by Other Exercises, Pyongyang Says," Xinhua News Agency, 10 March 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Korean Central News Agency (Pyongyang), 10 March 1996, in "North Korean Newspaper Calls for Halt to All Military Manoeuvres in South," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 10 March 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
13 March 1996
North Korea establishes a working-level group to coordinate activities relating to the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) light water reactor project. The group, tentatively called the "East Sea Atomic Reactor Project Planning Office," will have responsibilities ranging from establishing strategies for follow-up negotiations with KEDO to managing both North Korean and foreign personnel working on the reactor project in [Kumho-chigu], Shinp'o.
--Hanguk Ilbo, 14 March 1996, p. 2, in "North to Form Counterpart Body for Reactor Supply," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 14 March 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Kim Byong Ch'an, "Puk, Wonjonkihwoektan Kusongkyehwek/Uri Kyongsuro Kihwoektan Shilmu Sangdaegiguro," Hankook Ilbo, 14 March 1996, p. 2, in KINDS, www.kinds.or.kr.
18 March 1996
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Hans Blix reports to the IAEA Board of Governors that North Korea is not cooperating with IAEA efforts to ascertain the quantity of plutonium held at the Yongbyon nuclear complex. IAEA inspectors have made a number of attempts to photograph the facility since September 1995, in accordance with agreements reached with North Korea. However, they have been restricted from taking photographs. Blix also reports that North Korea has been slow in granting visas for IAEA inspectors.
--"North Korea Still Not Cooperating with Nuclear Inspectors: UN," Agence France Presse, 18 March 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
19 March 1996
The Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) executive board officially names the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) as the prime contractor for the light water reactor project. At the meeting held in Seoul, delegates from South Korea, the United States and Japan also discuss funding for the heavy oil shipments and the admission of the European Union to the executive board.
--Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 19 March 1996, in "Korean Energy Organization to Commission Company to Build Nuclear Reactor," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 19 March 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
20 March 1996
Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) Executive Director Stephen Bosworth and Korean Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) President Lee Chong Hun sign the agreement commissioning KEPCO as the prime contractor for the light water reactor project.
--Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 21 March 1996, in "KEDO Commissions South Korean Corporation as Prime Reactor Contractor," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 21 March 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Cho Chae Yong, "Hanjon Chugyeyakcha Shijong/KEDO Isahwoe/Ch'ongjangdan 26 Il Pangbuk," Hankook Ilbo, 20 March 1996, p. 1, in KINDS, www.kinds.or.kr.
26-30 March 1996
A Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) delegation, headed by Executive Director Stephen Bosworth, meets with North Korean officials in Shinp'o to inspect the proposed construction site and discuss details of the light water reactor project. The two sides agree to hold further consultations in New York and Mt. Myohyang to conclude necessary follow-up protocols for implementing the reactor supply agreement.
--"Delegation in North Korea Discussion Building of Nuclear Plant," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 26 March 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Nuclear Consortium Leaders Visit North Korea," Agence France Presse, 26 March 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "KEDO, N. Korea to Hold Talks in New York on April 8," Japan Economic Newswire, 3 April 1996, in Lexis-Nexis , <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
29 March 1996
North Korean Vice Marshall Kim Kwang Jin says, "What the point is now is not whether a war will break out on the Korean Peninsula, but when it will be unleashed."
--"South Korea Warns North Korea Would Face Retaliation," Agence France Presse, 30 March 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "'Hanbando Chonjaeng Pulgap'i'/Namso Puk Pyonghwahwoedam Kobunun Sonjonp'ogo," Kukmin Ilbo, 29 March 1996, p. 2, in KINDS www.kinds.or.kr.
5 April 1996
North Korea announces that it will no longer recognize the demilitarized zone separating North and South Korea. North Korea, in the statement carried by the Korean Central News Agency, claims that the North Korean Army is taking "self-defensive measures" now that the demilitarized zone is no longer respected. While the statement offers no explanation, the South Korean Defense Ministry believes the threat to be an attempt to "wring concessions from the United States as they did by raising nuclear threats a couple of years ago."
--Reuters, "North Korea Says It Will Cease Respecting Demilitarized Zone," New York Times, 5 April 1996, p. A14, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
April 1996
Representatives from the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) and North Korea begin negotiations in New York to resolve issues relating to the light water reactor supply agreement. The two sides discuss issues such as the protection of foreign engineers working on the project (8 April-22 May) and the transportation of reactor components (16 April-14 June). The talks in New York and later talks to be held near Mt. Myohyang, North Korea are aimed at concluding protocols necessary for implementing the reactor supply agreement.
--"Working-Level Talks Under Way on KEDO Reactor Project," Japan Economic Newswire, 9 April 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Catherine Toups, "U.S. Group Starts Negotiations with North Korea on Reactors," Washington Times, 9 April 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Pyongyang, KEDO Begin Transport Discussions," Agence France Presse, 16 April 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
11 April 1996
Secretary of State Warren Christopher says that the United States will not enter into any peace talks with North Korea that exclude South Korea. [Note: Washington and Seoul view North Korea's recent incursions into the demilitarized zone as an attempt to force the United States into direct negotiations to replace the current armistice agreement with a peace treaty.]
--Terence Hunt, "U.S. Says It Won't Be Bullied into Separate Talks with North Korea," Associated Press, 11 April 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
11 April 1996
A Pentagon report, "Nonproliferation: Threats and Response," highlights North Korea's ballistic missile and other weapons of mass destruction programs. The report says North Korea has "significantly advanced its nuclear program during the last 10 years." The report also says that Pyongyang has agreed to freeze and eventually eliminate its "plutonium-producing nuclear reactors and associated facilities."
--US Department of Defense, "Proliferation: Threat and Response," 11 April 1996, www.defenselink.mil.
16 April 1996
US President Bill Clinton and South Korean President Kim Young Sam propose four-party talks to replace the current armistice agreement with a peace treaty officially ending the Korean War. The proposed talks would include North and South Korea, the United States and China. North Korean ambassador to Moscow Song Sung Pil dismisses the proposal, saying, "At present other countries have no role to play on this area...There is no need for an international conference on this question." However, on 18 April, the North Korean Foreign Ministry announces that it is "examining the proposal of the US side to see whether it seeks another purpose and whether it is feasible."
--Alison Mitchell, "Clinton Visits Korea and New Peace Talks Are Proposed," New York Times, 16 April 1996, p. A8, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Richard Lloyd Parry, "North Korea Insists It Will Only Talks to The US; Korean Conundrum; North Rejects Four-Party Conference Aimed at Bringing 'Permanent Peace' to Peninsula," The Independent (London), 17 April 1996, p. 8, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Kate Webb, "North Korea Breaks Its Silence, Says It Is Studying Peace Proposal," Agence France Presse, 18 April 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
17 April 1996
For the second year in a row, Indonesia pledges $325,000 to the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) in the form of heavy fuel oil.
--"Indonesia Pledges More Heavy Fuel for North Korea," Agence France Presse, 17 April 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
19 April 1996
Singapore announces that it will make annual contributions of $100,000 to the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) for the next three years.
--Ravi Velloor, "S'pore to Give $141,000 a Year to Energy Body," The Straits Times (Singapore), 20 April 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "Singapore to Give 100,000 Dlrs Yearly to KEDO," Japan Economic Newswire, 19 April 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
26 April 1996
According to a 9 June report in the Japan's Sankei Shimbun, a North Korean official claims that North Korea has four nuclear-tipped missiles. In a meeting with US Deputy Secretary of State Thomas Hubbard, Kim Jong U, Vice Chairman of North Korea's external economy commission, threatens that if the United States does not provide food aid and technological assistance to North Korea, the people of South Korea and Japan may fall victim to four nuclear missiles. The Sankei Shimbun article quotes US military officials as saying they found the threat to be "rational" and reliable. [Note: On 10 June, the day after the Sankei Shimbun article is published, US State Department spokesman Nicholas Burns dismisses the report as "preposterous."]
--"North Korea Claims to Have Four Nuclear-Tipped Missiles: Report," Agence France Presse, 8 June 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "US Denies Report on North Korean Missile Threat," Agence France Presse, 10 June 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
28 April-6 May 1996
A 13-member Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) team travels to Shinp'o to conduct an infrastructure design assessment for the proposed light water reactor site. Upon returning to Seoul, one of the team members says that due to the lack of a stable power supply, generators may have to be shipped to the construction site.
--Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 7 May 1996, in "North Korea: Reactor Body Development Team Says Shinp'o Infrastructure Inadequate," Reuter Insurance Briefing, 8 May 1996, in IAEA Daily Press Review, 9 May 1996; "Nuclear Site Survey Team Says North Korean Preparations on Track," Agence France Presse, 7 May 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
Late April-Early May 1996
A delegation representing Japanese and Koreans who suffered from the 1945 atomic bombings on Hiroshima and Nagasaki meets with Korean Workers' Party Secretary Kim Yong Sun, in Pyongyang and asks him to take steps to help realize a nuclear weapons free zone in Northeast Asia.
--"Japanese, N. Korean A-Bomb Victims Agree on Nonnuke Zone," Japan Economic Newswire, 7 May 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
May 1996
The US issues an authorization for the transfer of certain nuclear technology to North Korea. The authorization is issued under the Department of Energy's regulations in 10 CFR Part 810, and it limits technology transfers only to what is "necessary for the licensing and safe operation of the reactors and not technology enabling the design or manufacture of nuclear reactor components or fuel."
--Michael Knapik, "New Part 810 Authorization Needed for North Korean LWRs," Nucleonics Week, Vol. 41, No. 45, 9 November 2000, www.mhenergy.com; Mark Hibbs and Michael Knapik, "Decisions on KEDO Project Fate Now in Hands of Bush Officials," Nucleonics Week, Vol. 42, No. 1, 4 January 2001, www.mhenergy.com.
1 May 1996
Personnel from the American firm NAC International and the Department of Energy, under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), begin safely storing 8,000 spent nuclear fuel rods in North Korea. The spent fuel rods had been slowly corroding in a cooling pond near the Yongbyon Nuclear Complex since they were removed from the 5MW(e) nuclear reactor in May 1994. The technicians are transferring the rods to steel canisters filled with argon gas, in which they will later be shipped to another country for safe storage and inspection. [Note: North Korea repeatedly denied the IAEA's request to conduct tests on the spent fuel rods before they were sealed inside the steel canisters.]
--"North Korea Reaches Nuclear Milestone," United Press International, 1 May 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "US Begins Removing Spent Nuclear Fuel in DPRK Plant," Xinhua News Agency, 1 May 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Eric Schmitt, "Washington Spat Threatens to Halt Disposal of North Korean Nuclear Fuel," New York Times, 20 April 1996, p. A11, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "North Korea Abides by Nuclear Agreement, US Says," Agence France Presse, 3 May 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "IAEA Dissatisfied with N. Korea over Nuclear Procedure," Japan Economic Newswire, 7 May 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
2 May 1996
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) spokesman David Kyd verifies that North Korea has begun storing the 8,000 nuclear spent fuel rods. However, according to Kyd, North Korean officials have refused to let IAEA inspectors measure the plutonium levels in the rods. Kyd says that four IAEA inspectors, including a radioactivity expert, are involved in the storage process. The inspectors have only been allowed to verify whether the fuel rods have been "burnt." The IAEA has estimated that the storage of the 8,000 fuel rods will be completed by June 1997. The IAEA will continue to seek authorization to measure the plutonium through negotiations with North Korea.
--"DPRK Hindering Measurement of Spent Nuclear Fuel Rods," KBS-1 Radio Network (Seoul), 2 May 1996; in FBIS Document FTS19960502000233, 2 May 1996; Nuclear News, April 1996, p. 14; Steve Pagani, "Austria: N. Korea Refuses to let IAEA Sample Nuclear Rods," Reuter Insurance Briefing, 2 May 1996, pp. 1-2, in IAEA Daily Press Review, 3 May 1996; "Puk Haek P'yeyonnyobong Pong'in Ch'aksu/Yongbyon Haekshisol 8 Ch'ongae Misaso/IAEA Kamdok," Kukmin Ilbo, 2 May 1996, p. 2, in KINDS, www.kinds.or.kr; Chong Pyon Chin, "Puk Kwago Haekkyumyong Sashilsang Musan/P'ye Yonnyobong Sample Ch'aech'ui Tto Kobu," Hankook Ilbo, 3 May 1996, p. 2, in KINDS, www.kinds.or.kr.
7 May 1996
Indonesia becomes a member of the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO).
--"About Us: Member Nations," Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization, www.kedo.org/au_members.
10 May 1996
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Hans Blix submits a report to UN Secretary General Boutros Boutros-Ghali on the progress of IAEA-North Korean talks. According to the report, the two sides have made little progress in negotiations on securing data necessary for verifying North Korea's past nuclear activities. Further delays, Blix warns, could prevent the IAEA from ever verifying that North Korea has declared all of the plutonium in its possession.
--"IAEA Head Vents Dissatisfaction with N. Korea in Report," Japan Economic Newswire, 11 May 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
22 May 1996
The Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) and North Korea initial a protocol granting diplomatic immunity to KEDO and KEPCO personnel working in North Korea on the light water reactor project. Talks on the protocol began in New York on 8 April.
--"US-Led Consortium, Pyongyang, Agree First Protocol," Agence France Presse, 22 May 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "KEDO, N. Korea to Initial Accord on Immunity," Japan Economic Newswire, 20 May 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "DPRK, KEDO Sign Protocol to Protect Foreign Workers," Xinhua News Agency, 23 May 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
31 May 1996
Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) Executive Director Stephen Bosworth announces that site preparation work in [Kumho-chigu], Shinp'o will begin by the end of the year. According to Bosworth, the proposed location for the reactors "fully meets international standards [of safety]." However, due to disputes over the type of reactor to be supplied, the target completion date of 2003 for the first reactor will be delayed at least one year.
--Debra Lau, "North Korea Reactor Work to Start This Year," The Daily Yomiuri, 2 June 1996, p. 3, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
14 June 1996
North Korea and the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) initial two more protocols relating to the light water reactor supply agreement. One protocol calls for the establishment of two transportation routes, one by sea and one by air, to facilitate the transfer of reactor materials. The other protocol establishes rules for the use of satellite communications by KEDO personnel while they are in Shinp'o. Talks on these protocols began in New York on 16 April.
--"N. Korea, KEDO Ink 2 More Protocols on Reactor Project," Japan Economic Newswire, 15 June 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "Pyongyang, US-Led Consortium Agree on KEDO Protocols," Agence France Presse, 14 June 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "DPRK, KEDO Sign Transportation, Communication Protocols," Xinhua News Agency, 17 June 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
21 June 1996
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reports that in 1995 it did not find any evidence that North Korea has diverted nuclear material. However, because the Agency remains unable to verify North Korea's initial declaration of nuclear material, North Korea is still non-compliant with its nuclear safeguards agreement it signed with the Agency in 1992.
--"Safeguards Implementation on 1995," IAEA Newsbriefs, July/August 1996, vol. 11, no. 3(72), p. 1; "North Korea Fails to Fulfill Nuclear-Control Obligations, IAEA Says," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 21 June 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
25 June 1996
IAEA representatives arrive in Pyongyang for the fifth round of talks with North Korea. The talks focus on the implementation of measures to preserve 8,000 spent fuel rods for future inspections, which are necessary for the Agency to determine the accuracy of North Korea's initial declaration of nuclear material.
--"Safeguards in the DPRK," IAEA Newsbriefs, July/August 1996, vol. 11, no. 3, p. 3; "IAEA Delegation Arrives in Pyongyang for Negotiations," Korean Central News Agency (Pyongyang), 25 June 1996, in FBIS Document FTS19960625000159, 25 June 1996; "IAEA Taep'yodan Pyongyang Toch'ak," Hankyoreh Shinmun, 26 June 1996, p. 3, in KINDS, www.kinds.kr.or.
2 July 1996
North Korea threatens to resume its nuclear program if heavy fuel oil shipments do not arrive on schedule. In a statement carried by the Korean Central News Agency, Pyongyang condemns a recent US congressional decision to cut the proposed $25 million package in half, and says that if the decision adversely affects oil deliveries, "we will be compelled to reconsider our nuclear freeze."
--"N. Korea Issues Nuclear-Energy Warning," United Press International, 2 July 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
6-29 July 1996
The sixth Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) inspection team travels to North Korea to inspect the proposed light water reactor construction site in [Kumho-chigu], Shinp'o.
--"6th KEDO Inspection Team to Visit N. Korea Sat.," Japan Economic Newswire, 6 July 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; KBS Radio (Seoul), 30 July 1996, in "South's Rector Delegation, Energy Organization Team Leave North Korea," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 1 August 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
9 July 1996
South Korea remits $6 million to the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) for pre-project service costs. South Korea's donation completes the estimated $9 million required by KEDO for this purpose; in 1995, Japan donated $3 million.
--"S. Korea Sends Money for Light-Water Reactor in DPRK," Xinhua News Agency, 9 July 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
11 July 1996
North Korea and the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) officially sign three protocols relating to the light water reactor supply agreement. The protocols, which were initialed on 22 May and 14 June, provide diplomatic protection for KEDO and KEPCO personnel, regulate satellite communications, and designate two transportation routes for reactor materials. [Note: Talks on the protocols were held in New York from April to June.]
--"Protocol between the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization and the Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on Communications for the Implementation of a Light-Water Reactor Project," Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization, www.kedo.org; "Protocol between the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization and the Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on Transportation for the Implementation of a Light-Water Reactor Project," Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization, www.kedo.org; "Protocol between the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization and the Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on the Juridical Status of the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea," Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization, www.kedo.org; "Protocols Signed on North Korean Nuclear Agreement," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 11 July 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "DPRK, KEDO Sign Nuclear Protocols," Xinhua News Agency, 11 July 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 12 July 1996, in "North Korea, Korean Energy Body Sign Protocols on Reactor Supply Agreement," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 13 July 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
16 July 1996
The Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), primary contractor of the light water reactor project in North Korea, submits a cost estimate to the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO). KEPCO estimates that the construction will cost at least $5 billion, but KEDO officials say the figure is subject to further negotiations.
--"Contractor Gives Cost Estimate on N. Korean Reactors," Japan Economic Newswire, 17 July 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Japan Ponders Loan for North Korean Nuclear Reactors," Nikkei Weekly, 29 June 1996, p. 2, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
17 July 1996
Chile becomes a member of the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO).
--"About Us: Member Nations," Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization, www.kedo.org/au_members.
19 July 1996
South Korea's National Unification Ministry approves KEPCO's construction plan for the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) light water reactor project.
--Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 20 July 1996, in "Seoul Approves Contract for Nuclear Plant," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 22 July 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
20-29 July 1996
Representatives from the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) and North Korea meet near Mt. Myohyang, north of Pyongyang, to discuss additional follow-up protocols to the light water reactor supply agreement. The protocols under discussion will cover the management of the construction site near Shinp'o and the provision of North Korean labor, good and services relating to the project. The North Korean delegation reportedly demands "special" wages for North Koreans working on the project. The two sides fail to initial an agreement, but talks resume in New York on 22 August. [Note: The KEDO delegation had originally planned to visit the proposed reactor site, but due to torrential rains, the trip was cancelled.]
--"Nuclear Team Arrives in North Korea," Agence France Presse, 21 July 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; KBS Radio (Seoul), 30 July 1996, in "South's Rector Delegation, Energy Organization Team Leave North Korea," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 1 August 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "KEDO-Pyongyang Talks Set to Resume Thursday," Agence France Presse, 20 August 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
22 July 1996
South Korea's Ministry of Finance and Economy informs the Office of Planning for the Light-Water Reactor Project that South Korea will not finance more that 60 percent (approximately $3.5 billion) of the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) project.
--Chosun Ilbo, 23 June 1996, p. 1, in "South Will Not Bear More Than 60 Percent of Costs of Reactors for North," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 25 July 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "'Puk Kyongsuro Piyong Pundam Hanguk 60% Isang Pulga'," Chosun Ilbo, 23 July 1996, p. 1, in KINDS, www.kinds.co.kr.
24 July 1996
Stephen Bosworth, executive director of the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO), announces that construction of the first light water reactor in [Kumho-chigu], Shinp'o, North Korea will likely begin within the year.
--Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 24 July 1996, in "Construction of Light-Water Reactor Project to Begin This Year," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 25 July 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
26 July 1996
The Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) announces that it has selected the Korea Exchange Bank, Citibank, the Bank of Tokyo and Mitsubishi Bank to handle the funding of the light water reactor project in North Korea.
--"Four Banks Chosen to Handle N Korean Nuclear Reactor Funds: Report," Agence France Presse, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "KEDO Chugorae'unhaeng/Woehannun Sonjong," Donga Ilbo, 27 July 1996, p. 10, in KINDS, www.kinds.co.kr.
August 1996
An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards report not released to the public says that the IAEA is unable to verify North Korea's initial declaration of nuclear material under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
--Gamini Seneviratne, "All Material Accounted for, According to Recent IAEA Report," NuclearFuel, 12 August 1996, p.15.
11 August 1996
A Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) official announces that KEPCO has selected Duke Engineering & Services as its technical consultant for the light water reactor project in North Korea. The US based Duke Engineering will provide technical support for various aspects of the project, including expenses, design and construction. [Note: KEPCO and Duke Engineering & Services sign a contract in May 1997.]
--Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 12 August 1996, in "Korea Nuclear Consortium Tentatively names Technical Consultant for North Project," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 13 August 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "B&W Canada to Supply Qinshan SGs; Other Contracts," Nuclear News, June 1997, vol. 40, no. 7, p. 70.
22 August 1996
The US Treasury Department, calling North Korea a "sponsor of terrorism," announces steps to prohibit the transfer of funds from US citizens to North Korea.
--"Pyongyang Denounces Reported US Move to Block Funds to North Korea," Agence France Presse, 30 August 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
22 August to 27 September 1996
Representatives from the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) and North Korea meet in New York for the second round of talks concerning protocols on management of the [Kumho-chigu], Shinp'o reactor site and the provision of North Korean labor and services to the light water reactor project. On 27 September, the two sides agree to the terms of the protocols. North Korea agrees to provide 3.3 square miles for the construction site and related facilities. However, the most contentious issue, the wages of North Koreans working on the project, remains unresolved as the two sides decide to pass the issue on to KEPCO, the prime contractor for the project.
--"N. Korea, KEDO Resume Talks on Nuclear Reactor Project," Japan Economic Newswire, 23 August 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 24 August 1996, in "Energy Organization, North Korea Resume Protocol Talks on Reactor Site," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 24 August 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; "N. Korean Reactor Project Talks Suspended," Japan Economic Newswire, 26 September 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 23 September 1996, in "Negotiations between Korean Energy Body and North Korea on Verge of 'Rupturing'," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 25 September 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>; Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 29 September 1996, in "South Korean Report on Signing of Reactor Protocols," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 30 September 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
24 August 1996
Japan's Sankei Shimbun, quoting a Japanese government official, reports that the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) will begin construction on the first light water reactor as early as November.
--"KEDO Set to Start Building Nuke Plants in N. Korea," Japan Economic Newswire, 24 August 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>.
24 August 1996
The North Korean Foreign Ministry warns that Pyongyang is prepared to resume its nuclear program if Washington changes its North Korean policy as a result of the upcoming US presidential election.
--"N Korea Firms Nuclear Stance," Financial Times (London), 24 August 1996, p. 2, in Lexis-Nexis, <web.lexis-nexis.com>
5 September 1996
Argentina becomes a member of the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO).
--"About Us: Member Nations," Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization, www.kedo.org/au_members.
16 September 1996
During the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) Annual General Conference in Vienna, IAEA Director General Hans Blix states that "the IAEA remained unable to verify the initial declaration of nuclear materials made by [North Korea]...and that this is still the case."
--Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 17 September 1996, in "Atomic Energy Agency Accuses North Korea of Violating Nuclear Safety Regime," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 18 September 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 21 September 1996, in "International Atomic Energy Agency Concerned at North's Non-Compliance," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 23 September 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "O'Leary Praises North Korean Nuclear Cooperation," Agence France Presse, 17 September 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
17 September 1996
Yun Ho Jin, North Korean representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), states that North Korea "will not give the IAEA any information whatsoever" about spent fuel from its 5MW(e) nuclear reactor "until the new reactors are finished and begin operating."
--Mark Hibbs, "DPRK Won't Comply With Safeguards Until New Reactors Are Finished," NuclearFuel, 23 September 1996, p. 2.
18 September 1996
A North Korean submarine runs ashore in the northeastern region of South Korea. According to South Korean reports, the submarine carried 26 North Korean agents, 24 of whom are later killed by South Korean soldiers or their fellow agents. The incident sparks inflamed rhetoric from both the North and South and threatens the success of ongoing KEDO-North Korean negotiations on the light water reactor supply contract. Following the incident, South Korea cancelled a planned visit to Shinp'o by a site survey team.
--"Talks with North Korea 'In Flux' on Nuclear Project," Agence France Presse, 10 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "Seoul: U.S., S. Korea to Bolster Defense," United Press International, 11 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "U.S. Urges N. Korea to Change Attitude," United Press International, 12 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Lee Tong Chae and Chu Yong Ki, "Mujangganch'op 10 Myong Kangnung Ch'imt'u/Onulsaebyok Plastic Chamsujong Iyong," Kukmin Ilbo, 18 September 1996, p. 1, in KINDS, www.kinds.or.kr; "Saengp'oganch'op Lee Kwang Su Ilmun'iltap," Kukmin Ilbo, 19 September 1996, p. 27, in KINDS, www.kinds.or.kr.
20 September 1996
As tensions on the peninsula rise following the incursion of a North Korean submarine into South Korea, Pyongyang warns against a possible surprise attack from the United States. Pyongyang condemns Washington's statement that it has a "strong plan" to prevent North Korean from possessing nuclear weapons, and warns that if Washington continues its "anti-DPRK campaign," North Korea "cannot sit idle, restricted by the agreement (Agreed Framework)." "We have nothing to lose even without the agreement. On the contrary, we will be able to continuously develop our independent nuclear power industry...without any restriction."
--Korean Central News Agency (Pyongyang), 20 September 1996, in "US 'Strong Plan' Against Nuclear Weapons Possession Denounced," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 21 September 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "N Korean Media Again Says Pyongyang Can Restart Nuclear Program," Agence France Presse, 20 September 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
21 September 1996
For the fourth year in a row, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Assembly adopts a resolution stating that North Korea is in noncompliance with its safeguards agreement. While the resolution notes that North Korea has begun safely storing 8,000 spent fuel rods, it calls on Pyongyang to fully abide by its safeguards agreement.
--"Safeguards in the DPRK," IAEA Newsbriefs, November/December 1996, vol. 11, no. 4(73), p. 5; "N. Korea Urged to Fully Accept Nuclear Inspection," Japan Economic Newswire, 21 September 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 21 September 1996, in "International Atomic Energy Agency Concerned at North's Non-Compliance," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 23 September 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
23-27 September 1996
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and North Korea hold negotiations in Vienna, but the IAEA fails to persuade North Korea to comply with its safeguards agreement and allow inspections of spent nuclear fuel rods.
--Mark Hibbs, "DPRK Won't Comply With Safeguards Until New Reactors Are Finished," Nuclear Fuel, 23 September 1996, pp.1-2; "IAEA's Meeting with North Koreans Failed: Report," Agence France Presse, 2 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
24 September 1996
The South Korean Defense Ministry issues a statement proposing the resumption of the joint US-South Korean military exercise Team Spirit. According to the statement, Seoul will make the recommendation to Washington during bilateral security consultative talks scheduled for 31 October to 1 November. [Note: Condemned by Pyongyang as preparations for a nuclear conflict, the annual Team Spirit exercise wase canceled in 1994 in order to ease tension on the Korean Peninsula in the months leading up to the Agreed Framework. The proposed resumption of the exercises comes in the wake of the mid-September incursion of a North Korean submarine into South Korea.]
--"S. Korea to Propose to U.S. Revival of Joint Drills," Japan Economic Newswire, 24 September 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Vasily Golovnin, "South Korea Moves to Resume 'Team Spirit' Manoeuvres," ITAR-TASS, 24 September 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "Seoul Seeks Restart of Joint Maneuvers," Washington Post, 25 September 1996, p. A26, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
1 October 1996
The US General Accounting Office (GAO) presents a report to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on the status of the 1994 Agreed Framework. The report describes the Agreed Framework as "nonbinding political agreement" with legal obligations. The report cites the State Department as saying that US "executed a nonbinding political agreement because it would not have been in the United States' interests to accept an internationally binding legal obligation to provide the reactors and interim energy to North Korea." Instead, the United States "wanted the flexibility to respond to North Korea's policies and actions in implementing the Agreed Framework flexibility that binding international agreements, such as a treaty, would not have provided."
--"Nuclear Nonproliferation: Implications of the U.S./North Korean Agreement on Nuclear Issues," United States General Accounting Office, GAO/RCED/NSIAD-97-8, 1 October 1996.
9 October 1996
South Korean President Kim Young Sam announces that construction on the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) light water reactor project will be delayed due to the mid-September incursion of a North Korean submarine into South Korea.
--"S. Korea to Suspend Aid to North, President Kim Says," Japan Economic Newswire, 9 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
11 October 1996
US Assistant Secretary of State Winston Lord and South Korean Foreign Minister Kong Ro Myong meet in Seoul to discuss joint US-South Korean security following the mid-September incursion of a North Korean submarine into South Korea and the subsequent deaths of the North Korean crew. Despite the rising tension on the peninsula, Lord and Kong agree that the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) project should move ahead as scheduled.
--"Seoul: U.S., S. Korea to Bolster Defense," United Press International, 11 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Zeno Park, "South Korea and US Agree to Push for Dialogue with North Korea," Agence France Presse, 11 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
15 October 1996
North Korea denounces US Assistant Secretary of State Winston Lord's recent trip to Seoul to discuss escalating tension on the Korean Peninsula, and warns the United States not to support South Korea's attempts to delay implementation of the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) light water reactor project. According to a Foreign Ministry spokesman, "If the US administration...decided to leave the provision of light water reactors to the unilateral decision of the South Korean authorities, it will, needless to say, have a decisive influence on the implementation of the agreement." "If things go that way," the spokesman continues, "It goes without saying that the future of the DPRK-US framework agreement has already been decided."
--"North Korea Threatens to Abrogate Nuclear Deal with U.S.," Associated Press, 15 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "N. Korea: U.S. Jeopardizes Nuclear Pact," United Press International, 15 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
16-17 October 1996
Representatives from the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) and the European Union (EU) meet in Brussels to discuss the EU becoming a member of the KEDO Executive Board. The current board members, the United States, Japan and South Korea, agree to realize the EU's membership at an early date. [Note: On 1 October, EU foreign ministers met in Luxemburg and pledged $21 million to KEDO annually for the next five years on the condition that the EU is given a seat on the executive board.]
--"EU Seeks Korea Policy Say," Financial Times (London), 16 October 1996, p. 6, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "EU to Join KEDO at Early Date," Jiji Press Ticker Service, 18 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "EU to Have Greater Say in KEDO by Providing More Aid," Japan Economic Newswire, 1 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
24 October 1996
Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) Executive Director Stephen Bosworth acknowledges that the recent elevation in tension on the Korean Peninsula could lead to delays in implementing the light water reactor supply agreement. However, Bosworth emphasizes that the KEDO framework is still intact and all parties continue to recognize its importance.
--"KEDO Framework Said Intact after Alleged Infiltration," Japan Economic Newswire, 25 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "Submarine Incident Could Slow North Korean Reactor Project," Agence France Presse, 24 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Debra Lau, "Korean Peninsula Troubles May Delay KEDO Plan," The Daily Yomiuri, 27 October 1996, p. 3, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
28 October-10 November 1996
The US and South Korea hold the annual "Foal Eagle" military exercise. North Korea condemns the exercise as a "replica of the 'Team Spirit' joint military maneuvers," and an attempt to increase military tension on the Korean Peninsula.
--"S Korea-US Troops to Stage Joint Two-Week Field Training Exercise," Agence France Presse, 9 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Korean Central News Agency (Pyongyang), 27 October 1996, in "US-South Korea 'Foal Eagle' Exercise 'Open Threat' to North," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 28 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
29 October 1996
The UN General Assembly adopts a resolution calling on North Korea to adhere to its safeguards agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The resolution urges North Korea to "preserve all information relevant to verifying the accuracy and completeness of the initial report of the DPRK on the inventory of nuclear material subject to safeguards until the DPRK comes into full compliance with its safeguards agreement."
--"UN Backs IAEA's Work and Calls on North Korean Cooperation," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 29 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "Director-General Tells Assembly of Ever-Widening Role of IAEA in Verifying Nuclear Arms Control Agreement," Federal News Service, 29 October 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
31 October-1 November 1996
US Defense Secretary William Perry and South Korean Defense Minister Kim Dong in meet in Washington for an annual security meeting. Perry and Kim issue a joint security communiqué condemning "the submarine infiltration of armed North Korean commandoes" as a breach of the armistice agreement. In addition, the communiqué reaffirms the need for a "robust schedule" of joint military maneuvers, but it puts off until next year any decision on whether or not to resume the contentious Team Spirit exercise. [Note: Pyongyang condemns the Team Spirit exercise as a preparation for nuclear attacks against North Korea. Team Spirit has been cancelled since 1994 in order to reduce tension on the peninsula, but after the 18 September North Korean submarine incident, South Korea has recommended resuming the maneuvers.]
--Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 2 November 1996, in "Communiqué on Security Issued with USA," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 4 November 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Kohei Murayama, "S. Korea, U.S. to Enhance War Drills, but Not Team Spirit," Japan Economic Newswire, 2 November 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
5 November 1996
According to the Hankyoreh Shinmun, US and North Korean officials meet in New York to discuss various issues including the progress of the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) light water reactor project. North Korea reportedly threatens to resume its nuclear program if work on the project does not begin soon.
--"North Korea Reportedly Threatening to Resume Its Nuclear Program," Associated Press, 7 November 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Chong Yon Chu, "Puk, Geneva Kibonhabui Yubo Shisa," Hankyureh Shinmun, 7 November 1996, p. 1, in KINDS, www.kinds.co.kr.
7 November 1996
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Hans Blix expresses concern that North Korea is concealing or destroying information necessary to determine the exact amount of plutonium in its possession. Speaking to reporters after briefing the UN Security Council, Blix says, "The concern now is that although the DPRK promised that at some time in the future they will come into full compliance, time passes, and some of the evidence that will help us to establish what the quantities are may disappear."
--"Pyongyang Concealing Information on Plutonium Stocks: IAEA," Agence France Presse, 7 November 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
8 November 1996
In his first press conference since winning the presidential election, President Bill Clinton says he remains committed to "stopping the North Korean nuclear program."
--Kohei Murayama, "Clinton Vows to Stop N. Korean Nuclear Program," Japan Economic Newswire, 9 November 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
8 November 1996
US State Department spokesman Nicholas Burns says that the United States is meeting its commitments under the Agreed Framework, and that there is no evidence that North Korea is not meeting its commitments. He says, "The Agreed Framework is going forward - it's being implemented."
--US Department of State, Office of the Spokesman, "Daily Press Briefing," 8 November 1996, dosfan.lib.uic.edu/ERC/index.
9 November 1996
South Korean President Kim Young Sam announces that South Korea will not participate in the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) light water reactor project until North Korea apologizes for the incursion of a North Korean submarine into South Korea on 18 September. In an interview with the Washington Post, Kim says, "The implementation of the nuclear agreement on our part will be suspended for the time being."
--Kevin Sullivan, "S. Korea Demands Apology from North: Kim Suspends Nuclear Deal after Sub Incident," Washington Post, 9 November 1996, p. A19; Yonhap News Agency (Seoul), 9 November 1996, in "South's President Says Nuclear Project Aid Suspended but Not Totally Withdrawn," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 11 November 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
15 November 1996
North Korea threatens that it will restart its nuclear program if there are any further delays in the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) light water reactor project. In a statement carried by the Korean Central News Agency, Pyongyang says, "We cannot keep the nuclear program frozen any longer only to get heavy oil shipments which can be suspended at any time."
--"N. Korea Says Nuke Freeze Dead," United Press International, 15 November 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; North Korea Threatens to Restart Nuclear Program," Associated Press, 15 November 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Teruaki Ueno (Reuter), "N. Korea Moves to Break U.S. Nuclear Agreement," The Washington Post, 16 November 1996, p. A22, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
17 November 1996
US Defense Secretary William Perry says that if North Korea follows through with its threat to abandon the Agreed Framework, Washington would regard it as "a very serious threat to American security." However, Perry does not mention specifically what the United States would do in such an event.
--"Perry Voices Concern Over North Korea Breaking Nuclear Agreement," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 17 November 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "US Would See As 'Serious' North Korea Nuclear Program Resumption," Agence France Presse, 17 November 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
19 November 1996
North Korea closes its liaison office in the truce village of Panmunjom.
--Richard Lloyd Parry, "Dithering in Europe Leaves Korea Staring into Nuclear Abyss," The Independent (London), 20 November 1996, p. 15, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "Puk 'P'anmunjom Yollaksamuso 'P'yeswae'/Chungangt'ongshin Podo," Chosun Ilbo, 20 November 1996, p. 1, in KINDS, www.kinds.co.kr.
20 November 1996
Paul Cleveland, chairman of the Board of Directors of the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) and US ambassador at large in charge of nuclear affairs, meets in Seoul with Chang Son Sop, director commissioner of the ROK Light-Water Reactor Office. Cleveland stresses that resumption of the KEDO light water reactor project is vital to security on the Korean Peninsula, but Chang says that Seoul's position is that activities relating to the reactor project will not resume until Pyongyang apologizes for the 18 September submarine incident. Chang says that South Korea cannot guarantee the safety of technicians working on the project while tension on the peninsula is so high.
--Donga Ilbo, 21 November 1996, p. 2, in "Light water Reactor Project Discussed at Seoul Meeting," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 22 November 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Mun Ch'ol, "Mi 'Kyongsuro Chosokchaegae Huimang'/Panghan Mi Kyongsurodaesa," Donga Ilbo, 21 November 1996, p. 2, in KINDS, www.kinds.co.kr.
22 November 1996
In Manila, South Korean Foreign Minister Yu Chong Ha says that South Korea cannot proceed with the four-party talks and the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) light water reactor project until North Korea apologizes for the 18 September submarine infiltration into South Korea. However, US Secretary of State Warren Christopher says it is important to continue the talks and the reactor project.
--Cho Kang Su, "'Puk Sakwa · Chaebalbangji Yaksok Sonhaengdoeya'/Han ·Mi Woemuhwoedam," Kukmin Ilbo, 23 November 1996, p. 2, in KINDS, www.kinds.or.kr.
24 November 1996
US President Bill Clinton and South Korean President Kim Young Sam issue a joint statement reassuring North Korea that the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO)light water reactor project "will be implemented." Referring to the 18 September submarine incident, the statement also calls on North Korea to "take acceptable steps...to reduce tension and avoid such provocation in the future."
--"URGENT Clinton and Kim Call on N. Korea to Help Reduce Tension," Agence France Presse, 24 November 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Tyler Marshall and David Holley, "Clinton Smooths Rift with S. Korean Leader; Diplomacy: Two Nations Still Differ on N. Korea Nuclear Policy, Peace Initiatives, as Asian Summit Opens," Los Angeles Times, 25 November 1996, p. A1, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "4 Cha Hwoedam Chonjesopsi Ch'ujin/Chongbu, 'Chamsuham Sakon' Sagwawa'ui Yongye Ch'olhoe," Hankyoreh Shinmun, 25 November 1996, in KINDS, www.kinds.or.kr.
26-27 November 1996
US Congressman Bill Richardson meets with North Korean officials in Pyongyang to discuss the rising tension on the Korean peninsula and the survival of the 1994 nuclear accord. The two sides agree to take "action measures" to help implement the Agreed Framework and improve Washington-Pyongyang relations.
--"US Congressman, N Korean Officials Agree to Take 'Action Measure,'" Agence France Presse, 28 November 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
29 November 1996
North Korea once again threatens to restart its nuclear program. A statement carried by the Korean Central News Agency warns that "if the provision of LWRs (light water rectors) is delayed or frustrated, the DPRK-US framework agreement will be destroyed."
--Korean Central News Agency (Pyongyang), in "Pyongyang Says USA 'Siding' with South to 'Delay' Supply of Reactors," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 2 December 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
9-28 December 1996
The US and North Korea hold working-level consultations in New York covering various issues such as the Agreed Framework, the 18 September submarine incident and the proposed four-nation peace talks. The North Korean delegation is headed by Lee Hyong Ch'ol, director of American affairs for the Foreign Ministry, and the US delegation is headed by Mark Minton, director of the State Department's Korean Affairs office. At the talks, the two sides reaffirm their commitment to implementation of the Agreed Framework. Throughout the talks, the United States stresses that North Korea must make a public display of contrition for the submarine incident in order to ease tension on the Korean Peninsula, prevent further delays in the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) light water reactor project, and improve Washington-Pyongyang ties. Early in the consultations, North Korea agrees to issue a statement expressing regret over the submarine incident, but only after many days of negotiations do the sides agree on wording that is acceptable to both North and South Korea.
--"U.S., North Korea Hold 'Frank and Constructive' Talks," Associated Press, 10 December 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, www.lexis-nexis.com; Alexander Kopnov, "American-North Korean Consultations Begin in New York," ITAR-TASS, 9 December 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, www.lexis-nexis.com; "N. Korea Shows Signs of Easing Stance on Sub Incident," Japan Economic Newswire, 13 December 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, www.lexis-nexis.com; Sarah Jackson-Han, "North Korea Pressed to Apologize for Submarine Incident," Agence France Presse, 18 December 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, www.lexis-nexis.com; Debra Lau, "Deal to End N. Korea-ROK Deadlock Seen Near," The Daily Yomiuri, 22 December 1996, p. 1, in Lexis-Nexis, www.lexis-nexis.com; Zeno Park, "North Korea Makes New Peace Gesture after Return of Sub Bodies," Agence France Presse, 30 December 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
11 December 1996
A North Korean delegation arrives in Taipei for talks on storing Taiwanese nuclear waste in North Korea.
--"Taiwan May Ship Nuclear Waste to North Korea," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 23 December 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, www.lexis-nexis.com.
24 December 1996
The Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) announces that the European Union (EU) will officially join the organization as an executive board member in January.
--"EU to Join Board of N. Korea Nuke Group," United Press International, 24 December 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "EU Joining Nuclear Consortium Giving Reactors to North Korea," Associated Press, 24 December 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
29 December 1996
In a statement carried on the Korean Central News Agency, North Korea apologizes for the 18 September submarine incident. A Foreign Ministry spokesman, reading the statement on behalf of Pyongyang, expresses "deep regret for the submarine incident in the coastal waters of Kangnung, South Korea, in September 1996 that caused the tragic loss of human life." The statement also says that North Korea "will make efforts to ensure that such an incident will not recur, and will work with others for durable peace on the Korean Peninsula."
--"N. Korea Apologizes to South over Submarine Incursion.," Japan Economic Newswire, 29 December 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "URGENT North Korea Apologizes," Agence France Presse, 29 December 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; Nicholas D. Kristof, "'Deep Regret' Sent by North Korea," New York Times, 30 December 1996, p. A1, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
30 December 1996
South Korea returns the remains of 24 North Korean commandoes that were killed after their submarine ran ashore near Kangnung, South Korea on 18 September. After the remains are returned, North Korea further eases tension on the peninsula by expressing its "willingness to listen...to a 'joint explanation' of the proposed 'four-way (peace) talks'" aimed at replacing the Korean armistice agreement with an official peace treaty.
--"Bodies of 24 Dead North Koreans Returned," Associated Press, 30 December 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com; "North Korea Makes New Peace Gesture after Return of Sub Bodies," Agence France Presse, 30 December 1996, in Lexis-Nexis, web.lexis-nexis.com.
