Regional development is a pressing issue in North Korea. United Nations data indicates huge gaps in child mortality, household wealth and apparent income between provinces. These disparities are liable to be far more pronounced at the county level, particularly between urban and rural centers.

Judging by recent legislation, the regime appears at least aware of the uneven development across the country. The Municipality and County Development Act and Municipality and County Construction Cement Guarantee Act point to more detailed obligations, mandates and prerogatives at the local level designed to narrow inequality.

But the regime’s