It's time to debate who takes the lead if North Korea collapses

What is it about?

More than 60 years after the end of the Korean War, American policy still assumes that Washington must provide the backbone and resources if North Korea collapses. It's time for a public discussion of how and why Seoul needs to step up and take the lead.

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Why is it important?

Dealing with North Korea's uncertain future cannot ignore the costly lessons learned from under-estimating the costs of engagement in Iraq and Afghanistan. US resources should target our national security priority--stemming the risks posed by proliferation if North Korea collapses. South Korea's economic and technological clout and the cooperation of allies in Asia need to be the centerpiece in the broader response to the regime in Pyongyang's demise.