Leadership
Information related to North Korea’s leadership and leadership structures
North Korea turns a corner with operational exercise of solid-fuel ICBM
After third successful launch of Hwasong-18, DPRK appears primed to focus on demonstrating new capabilities
December 19, 2023
North Korea hints at secret shakeup of military officials ahead of party plenum
State media coverage of mausoleum visit reveals unannounced promotion, while top military leader mysteriously absent
December 18, 2023
Next steps for North Korea: How open is Kim Jong Un to future diplomacy with US?
Most experts say DPRK would have limited interest in talks with new president, though some see potential in arms control
December 18, 2023
Kim Jong Un marks 12th anniversary of father’s death
Makeup of leader’s entourage during memorial service hints at recent promotions and possible purge, expert says
December 17, 2023
Next steps for North Korea: How successful is Yoon’s inter-Korean policy?
Survey of over 100 experts finds most consider Seoul’s approach ‘ineffective,’ with many saying tensions have worsened
December 15, 2023
Holiday gift guide: 2023’s best books on North Korea for all kinds of readers
New works offer fresh insight into the DPRK, from a deep dive into the military to a memoir of growing up in Pyongyang
December 14, 2023
What we know about Kim Jong Un’s daughter, one year after her reveal – Ep. 320
The NK News team discusses DPRK embassy closures in Africa, Kim’s speech to mothers and more
December 13, 2023
Cry me a river: How North Koreans interpret Kim Jong Un’s tears
Experts say state media coverage seeks to ‘humanize’ the leader, regardless of whether the tears are genuine or theater
December 13, 2023
Why North Korean hardliners will fight any return to the pre-pandemic status quo
Mixed signals on reopening point to ongoing efforts by some in regime to keep foreigners out, regardless of the costs
December 12, 2023
From Moscow to Pyongyang: North Korea pivots back toward the Soviet side
The DPRK repaired ties with USSR after cozying up to Beijing, and Moscow provided aid despite distaste for regime
December 12, 2023
