The month May was largely dominated by two major issues regarding North Korean leadership activity. First was the story of a recent purge of numerous high-ranking officials, corroborated by the disappearances of at least three of the most senior elites in the North Korean regime. The purge of more officials has generated more concerns over regime stability, especially if it is true – though it may not be – that Kim is actually executing all of these officials, which may create more desperation within the regime.

The second major story in May was Kim’s attendance at, and praise