Was Kim’s aide Choe destined to follow Jang? | NK News
NK News Logo
December 23, 2024

NK News is hiring

Evergreen

Was Kim’s aide Choe destined to follow Jang?

Choe Ryong Hae still missing, apparently excluded from leader’s new inner circle

While North Korea watchers ponder the whereabouts of Kim Jong Un’s former right-hand man, speculation has emerged that he, and Jang Song Thaek, may have been alienated from the young leader in late November to legitimize the so-called “lineage of Paektu.”

Looking back, a transitory event may have taken place on November 30 – in the absence of both Choe Ryong Hae and Jang.

Try unlimited access
Only $1 for four weeks

  • Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
  • Year-one discount if you continue past $1 trial period
  • The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in the loop
  • Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
  • Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting, investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe now

All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.