Leadership
Information related to North Korea’s leadership and leadership structures
Kim Yo Jong is barking at the US, but North Korea probably won’t bite
Flurry of statements is likely an attempt at verbal deterrence, not a harbinger of violence or signal DPRK seeks talks
July 20, 2023
Kim Jong Un appears to build giant private train station near beach mansions
Construction points to paranoia around leader’s security, as well as investment in personal luxuries despite shortages
July 14, 2023
Seoul slaps new sanctions on North Korea after latest ICBM test
Unilateral designations target 4 individuals and 3 firms for generating currency for DPRK nuclear and missile programs
July 14, 2023
North Korea reveals new smartphones, as Kim Jong Un uses likely Chinese model
NK News analysis suggests DPRK brands are importing components for devices, in apparent sanctions violation by Beijing
July 13, 2023
A remarkable success: North Korea stuns with second test of solid-fuel ICBM
Hwasong-18 flew higher and longer than any previous missile, but how DPRK has achieved such feats remains a mystery
July 13, 2023
North Korea launched Hwasong-18 ICBM as show of force against US: State media
Kim Jong Un guided launch as state media calls missile test boost to nuclear forces
July 13, 2023
Why North Korea has reined in firms’ freedom to set their own prices
DPRK laws shine light on efforts to reassert control in key economic sectors, a move that could stifle innovation
July 12, 2023
Kim Jong Un promotes democracy in North Korea — on his terms
Leader’s silence at plenum appears tied to effort to limit his own role, a move that may paradoxically empower him
July 11, 2023
Kim Yo Jong claims DPRK aircraft forced ‘intruding’ US spy planes to retreat
North Korean leader’s sister warns of ‘shocking incident’ over flights, after Pyongyang threatened to shoot down planes
July 10, 2023
Biding his time: Kim Jong Un is maneuvering for leverage ahead of future talks
Ongoing weapons development only increases North Korea’s bargaining power, underlining need to prioritize engagement
July 10, 2023
