A medley of theories proffers guidance on how to explain conflict behavior and how to resolve conflicts in Northeast Asia. Some theories combine description and prescription. The key issue is whether actors claim values as in a zero-sum contest or try to create values that enhance the objectives of each key player. This paper focuses on the theory of GRIT—graduated reciprocation in tension-reduction—advanced by psychologist Charles E. Osgood in 1962. The paper summarizes what Osgood saw as the key elements of a GRIT strategy and the major pitfalls if would have to overcome. To what extent have the major actors in Northeast Asia attempted some version of GRIT in past decades? Why have their efforts in this direction foundered or even backfired? Regardless of past experiences, might a strategy of “true” GRIT help to ameliorate conflicts today and tomorrow? What can we learn from earlier versions of GRIT practiced by the United States and USSR, the USA and China? Relations between North Korea and other key actors would probably benefit from a mutual gain orientation, but can GRIT bring about such an orientation or does its success depend on a pre-existing disposition to search for positive-sum outcomes?