Leadership
Information related to North Korea’s leadership and leadership structures
What has been the biggest surprise since you left North Korea? Defector survey
Execution of Jang Song Thaek, growth of cell phone network, and emergence of middle class, among factors
April full of personnel changes, military events
Ascension of Hwang Pyong So to No. 2 slot caps month full of leadership transitions
Choe Ryong Hae not purged, but no longer No. 2
Kim's former second-in-command still around, but apparently changing role
Report suggests Hwang Pyong So may have assumed new No. 2 status
Choe Ryong Hae may be relinquishing some responsibility due to poor health
Is tourism in North Korea a good or bad idea? Eleven defectors share their thoughts
Defectors have mixed views about advantages, disadvantages to tourism in North Korea
North Korea emphasizes air force around Day of the Sun
Regime seeks to remind people of air force’s relevance, build institutional confidence
Will North Korean be able to understand capitalism and free speech? Refugee survey
While capitalism currently has strong roots in North Korea, corruption could pose problems in future
Hwang Pyong So promoted to Vice-Marshal, elevated in Party
Close confidant of Kim Jong Un quickly rising in power and influence
Kim Il Sung’s Hyangsan Palace demolished
Building Kim Il Sung reported to have died in razed, replaced with young trees
Should Korea keep the cult of the Kims after reunification?
Statues and propaganda should be kept for historical purposes, some defectors say
