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December 21, 2024

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Gabriela Bernal

Gabriela Bernal

Gabriela Bernal is an analyst at NK News and NK Pro. She has a Ph.D. from the University of North Korean Studies, and her work has appeared in various media and online outlets.

Analysis

North Korean elites are unhappy. But don’t expect a mass exodus.

High-level defections highlight a loss of hope among DPRK officials, a growing cause of concern for Kim Jong Un’s rule

Gabriela BernalGabriela BernalOctober 4, 2024
Analysis

What to make of North Korea and Vietnam’s push to bolster military ties

While Hanoi seeks limited cooperation, it’s loath to jeopardize ties with key partners through alliance with Pyongyang

Gabriela BernalGabriela BernalSeptember 26, 2024
Analysis

Why South Korea going nuclear could spell good news for North Korea

While supporters argue WMDs would enhance ROK security, DPRK may reap unintended benefits from having nuclear neighbor

Gabriela BernalGabriela BernalSeptember 19, 2024
Analysis

For North Korea, arms sales to Russia are just start of its proliferation plans

Increased DPRK weapons production opens opportunities to find new buyers, a problem the West cannot afford to ignore

Gabriela BernalGabriela BernalSeptember 9, 2024
Analysis

Why fears of North Korean ‘provocations’ before US election are likely overblown

History shows DPRK usually waits to see who wins before taking military action, rather than seeking to influence vote

Gabriela BernalGabriela BernalSeptember 4, 2024
What If?

What if China stops sending humanitarian aid to North Korea?

DPRK faces economic calamity without trade with its biggest partner, a fact China could use to keep the peace

Gabriela BernalGabriela BernalSeptember 4, 2024
Analysis

Why Kim Jong Un’s campaign to compel youth loyalty is bound to backfire

Some say young North Koreans look more favorably on regime, but spread of outside media undermines faith in the state

Gabriela BernalGabriela BernalAugust 23, 2024
Analysis

As North Korea reels from floods, Kim Jong Un finds opportunity in the crisis

Leader has deflected blame and posed as savior, but he can’t afford to ignore need to invest in disaster preparedness

Gabriela BernalGabriela BernalAugust 7, 2024
Analysis

What Maduro’s disputed election win means for North Korea-Venezuela ties

While DPRK has yet to comment on election, past suggests it will be in strongman’s corner as he digs in to confront US

Gabriela BernalGabriela BernalAugust 2, 2024
Analysis

Why a report North Korea executed kids for watching K-dramas demands skepticism

Claim about execution of over 30 middle schoolers relies on dubious sourcing but shouldn’t distract from real crackdowns

Gabriela BernalGabriela BernalJuly 17, 2024