“We will study and learn the successful experiences from China and make efforts to support the growth of the friendly ties between the two nations” said Mun Kyong-dok, a new member of North Korea’s Alternate Politburo, Party Secretary for Pyongyang and a man widely regarded as part of the DPRK’s ‘next generation’ of leadership.

His has not been a lone voice.  In the weeks that have followed Kim Jong-Un’s first public appearance as his father’s confirmed successor as leader, there has been a flurry of activity suggesting that the DRPK is preparing to deepen its relationship with it’s neighbor and closest ally.