The month of November 2015 saw a continuation of the North Korean leadership’s recent emphasis on domestic economy, including a potential change in economic policies concerning domestic fish production. The increased prioritization of fishing and pressure on fisherman may have led to recent incidences of “ghost” fishing boats turning up in Japan.

November also saw the reappearance of Han Kwang Sang, the temporary absence of Hwang Pyong So, and continued absence of Choe Ryong Hae, as well as the death of retired KPA marshal Ri Ul Sol. Though many often stipulate that the absence of North Korean