THE IMPACT OF NORTH KOREA’S NUCLEAR DEVELOPMENT AND POLICIES TOWARDS JAPAN’S PACIFIST CONSTITUTION UNDER SHINZO ABE

Abstract

This thesis seeks to comprehend the relevance of Article 9 in regard to the military dynamics of Japan and its interactions with North Korea. The purpose of the study is to ascertain the justification for the existence of Article 9, the changes that have been made, and the effects of those changes on Article 9. The study is important because it looks at North Korea's actions and conduct and how they affect Japan and its adherence to Article 9 in that nation. The significance also examines North Korea's behavior and any actions that it takes that could influence Shinzo Abe's decision-making as Japan's minister at the time this research is being done. This study will cover any concerns brought up by North Korea while Shinzo Abe was prime minister as well as any decisions he made between 2012 and 2020. A qualitative research method was applied in this study. The time period for this study, from Shinzo Abe's second term in office in 2012 through Kim Jong Un's election as North Korea's president in 2020, is its main restriction. The study's conclusion is that North Korea's position on missile testing remains unchanged as a result of the modification to Article 9. The modification, however, has several advantages for Japan because it approves multiple military budget increases that help Japan develop its missile alert system. JSDF operations in other countries under the pretext of defending and aiding Japan's ally are also permitted by Japan.