Several developments in the final months of 2015 have both shed light and raised questions regarding the current composition of the North Korean leadership and the standings of various officials with that regime. December saw the unexpected and somewhat suspicious death of Kim Yang Gon, an influential figure in inter-Korean relations. The appearance rates and apparent statuses of two officials previously rumored to be purged – Ma Won Chun and Han Kwang Sang – continued to fluctuate in recent months. Meanwhile, the status of Choe Ryong Hae remains in question as he has gone unseen for months. Personnel changes can potentially impact