The image cracks
Article Abstract:
A series of incidents in North Korea and a surge in the number of high-ranking defectors to Seoul indicates Pyongyang is losing its control, raising questions about who is in charge. Kim Jong Il, who inherited the mantle of North Korean leadership from his father, has yet to assume the formal titles of party general secretary and state president, and may not until the third anniversary of his father's July 1994 death. South Korea is considering changes in how it handles defectors and may set up refugee camps.
Publication Name: Far Eastern Economic Review
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0014-7591
Year: 1996
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Cult classic
Article Abstract:
North Korea may operate less as a constitutional government than as a religious power structure, enabling Kim Jong Il to hold power without assuming top posts, but the feeble economy is why he has not done so. The country suffers from grain shortages, lawlessness in the provinces, and a lack of warm clothing, so further bad weather could bring disaster. However, a diplomatic breakthrough involving four-way negotiations could be nearing. Kim could use the coming US presidential election to force concessions.
Publication Name: Far Eastern Economic Review
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0014-7591
Year: 1996
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Seen but not heard: Kim's silence fuels speculation about a power struggle
Article Abstract:
Kim Jong Il's continued silence has spurred suggestions that he is ailing or that a power struggle continues behind the scenes in North Korea. South Korean analysts suggest he has a speech impediment. He has not yet assumed his father's titles and may be a hostage of conservative military interests. Some say a collective leadership is cementing control, perhaps led by Kim, while others see conflict between technocrats and the military, or between generations.
Publication Name: Far Eastern Economic Review
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0014-7591
Year: 1995
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