South Korea's Options in Responding to North Korean Cyberattacks

摘要

North Korea has increasingly mounted cyberattacks against South Korea. This paper first examines the dramatic differences between North and South Korea in cyberspace and the history of North Korean cyberattacks. Most of these attacks are easy to attribute for three reasons: they often come from addresses known to be used by North Korea; they often occur on Korean anniversaries; and they often use similar methods and attack code. In this article, the authors discuss possible responses by South Korea. Responses to these attacks begin with invoking international law and imposing sanctions. Next, South Korea can strengthen its defences by improving coordination between the government and the private sector. Finally, South Korea could, justifiably, launch counterattacks.