Analysis
Latest NK PRO analysis related to the DPRK
Why a report North Korea executed kids for watching K-dramas demands skepticism
Claim about execution of over 30 middle schoolers relies on dubious sourcing but shouldn’t distract from real crackdowns
July 17, 2024
Why recent assassination attempts may have Kim Jong Un worried for his safety
North Korean leader appears to be bolstering security, possibly due to perceived threats from US and ROK amid tensions
July 17, 2024
Why an ROK lawmaker floated military strikes on North Korean balloon launches
The proposal has raised concerns about escalation risks, but experts say both sides know the option is unrealistic
July 16, 2024
Bricks in the wall: How North Korean textbooks indoctrinate support for regime
DPRK’s messages can shape defector resettlement in ROK, encouraging engagement but hampering understanding of democracy
July 15, 2024
How the specter of North Korea-Russia military ties hung over the NATO summit
Seoul and Tokyo looked to strengthen relationship with alliance, but DPRK remains an afterthought amid focus on China
July 12, 2024
What to make of reports that China plans to send back all North Korean workers
Repatriation of thousands of laborers could be retaliation over DPRK-Russia ties and would cut off huge revenue source
July 11, 2024
Why North Korea is shunning Chinese tourists who used to be cash cow for regime
DPRK has only allowed Russian tours to date, a trend experts say bodes poorly for tourism industry and broader reopening
July 10, 2024
How North Korea could steal from China’s playbook to assert its maritime claims
Gray zone tactics ranging from air intrusions to cyberattacks enable DPRK to menace near border without firing a shot
July 9, 2024
Why Russia’s designs on North Korean rare-earth metals probably won’t pan out
Reports suggest DPRK has vast reserves of critical tech component, but closer analysis unearths reasons to be skeptical
July 8, 2024
Love lost? How Putin could spoil a Trump push to rekindle ties with Kim Jong Un
Ex-president’s reelection could form diplomatic love triangle, forcing North Korea to choose between US talks and Russia
July 5, 2024
