Abstract

This chapter examines the case study as an essential research method for the fields of political science and international relations. By taking research on US policy toward North Korea under the Clinton and Bush administrations, it presents when and how to use a qualitative case study effectively. It argues that in order to improve our knowledge and understanding of political science and IR issues, we must make the most of all the accessible research methods, and emphasizes that a research method selection should be subject to research topics and questions. A qualitative case study shows that the inter-branch relationship between the presidency and Congress played a pivotal role in US policy toward North Korea.