This simulation places participants in representations of the six roles in a scored “game” that allows them to avoid role playing while still being forced to answer to their constituencies (the point system) in a hypothetical summit to discuss normalization of relations and the denuclearization of North Korea between all six countries involved in the Six Party Talks (The United States, Russia, South Korea, North Korea, China, and Japan are all equally represented in the simulation). After conducting the simulation with over 500 participants across the country and around the world, the following results can be guaranteed:
- Participants learn a lot about themselves as negotiators and varying styles of negotiation,
- They develop an appreciation for the complexities and challenges involved specifically in multi-party talks, and
- They learn a great deal about the specific complexities, dynamics and frustrations of the Six Party Talks – including the historical grievances, cultural and political differences between the 6 countries.
No prior knowledge of the Six Party Talks is necessary – preparation materials (one 5-page packet) are provided by LINC.
The simulation can be facilitated for groups ranging from 6 – 100 participants and ideally would require a minimum of 3 hours but can be accomplished in as few as 2.5. Due to the guaranteed dynamic discussion that results from participating in the simulation, Managing Director Nicole Finnemann often chooses to complement the simulation with a photo presentation and discussion of the real-life status of the Talks – something she is significantly involved with in her “day job.” Additional funding and sponsorship for this simulation can be made available to interested groups thanks to the Korea Economic Institute.
“While I had a slightly more solid knowledge base regarding the Six-Party talks and the North Korean nuclear issue, this simulation reinforced just how difficult reaching compromise on this issue really is. While I had assumed before the simulation that no progress was being made on this front due to North Korean reticence to cooperate, I was very surprised to discover that agreement still eludes the Talks due to the specific policy objectives of each party to the talks, not just North Korea. This allowed me to take a longer view of the North Korean nuclear impasse.”
~Sara Shokravi, Washington D.C.
“The Six Party Talks simulation was a great opportunity to really understand the complex relationships between the countries at the negotiating table.”
~Benedicte Pons, Paris, France