[19990914]RS20051_North Korean Drug Trafficking Allegations and Issues for Congress.pdf

Congressional Research Service The Library of CongressCRS Report for CongressReceived through the CRS WebOrder Code RS20051Updated September 14, 1999North Korean Drug Trafficking: Allegations andIssues for CongressRaphael PerlSpecialist in International AffairsForeign Affairs and National Defense DivisionSummaryAt least 34 documented incidents, many involving arrest or detention of NorthKorean diplomats, link North Korea to drug trafficking. Such events, in the context ofongoing, credible, but unproven, allegations of large scale state sponsorship of drugproduction and trafficking, raise important issues for the Congress, the Administration,and Americas allies in combating international drug trafficking. The challenge to policymakers, is how to pursue an effective counter drug policy and comply with U.S. lawwhich may require cutting off aid to North Korea while pursuing other high priority U.S.foreign policy objectives including: (1) limiting possession and production of weaponsof mass destruction; (2) limiting ballistic missile production and export; (3) curbingterrorism, counterfeiting and international crime, and (4) addressing humanitarian needs.U.S. aid to North Korea is curre