The DPRK-PRC Alliance: Changes and Continuities

States exist in an anarchical structure, and their main priority is to survive. Alliances are useful tools for “small states” to ensure security, given their reduced capabilities. However, contemporary international studies have argued that small states gain more importance in the international structure by taking advantage of different forms of power. Indeed, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea has been able to use its geographical proximity to the People’s Republic of China’s border at its favor. Several elements have shaped the Sino-North Korean alliance. This thesis aims to highlight the non-material elements that have shaped the bilateral relations. As argued by Linus Hagström e Magnus Lundström on their article "Overcoming US-North Korean Enmity: Lessons from an Eclectic IR Approach" (2019), states are not only concerned with security calculations. States’ identities shape their interests and their behavior in the international structure. Status-seeking strategies, as well as security considerations, are crucial part of the international relations system. This approach allows a multifaced analysis of the Sino-North Korean relations. This thesis aims at drawing a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between China and North Korea after Xi Jinping and Kim Jong Un took office between the years 2011-2013. Through public speeches delivered by President Xi Jinping, as well as articles published in Chinese media outlets, this thesis focuses on the shift of North Korea and China’s identity.