North Korea’s succession is secretive and complicated. But it appears that Kim Jong-un’s young daughter is being groomed to take over on her father’s death.
Kim Jong Un has followed his father and grandfather in ruling by fear. The coronavirus pandemic has made North Korea ever more isolated, while expanded military capabilities make it a growing threat.
The increasing prominence of Kim Jong-un’s younger sister has prompted speculation about whether she is positioning herself for ultimate power in North Korea.
North Korea’s test of two new missile systems have stoked fears of a nuclear confrontation in Asia. But the North Korean leader may not be as unstable as he is made out.
China could win unprecedented global credibility by emerging as the champion of an international effort that fixes the North Korea problem once and for all. Does it have the moxie?
North Korea’s legitimacy derives almost wholly from its subjects’ perception of perfect strength and resolve. This makes it harder for Pyongyang to back down.
For a man who likes to be called ‘outstanding leader’ and ‘brilliant comrade’, Kim Jong-un is strangely unwilling to strut his stuff on the world stage.