Korean Demilitarized Zone: Opportunity to Help Reduce Economic Asymmetries on the Korean Peninsula

This paper proposes one potential vehicle to help diminish asymmetries between North and South Korea: the natural and cultural resources of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The DMZ contains a treasure trove of cultural and natural resources, including five rivers, hundreds of bird, fish and animal species, forests and historically significant sites. With proper planning, implementation and management, these resources can be used sustainably to maintain present biodiversity, develop significant jobs and revenues and help create a viable path towards symmetry between the two Koreas.