North Korea in grip of leadership tension

by JOSEPH R DETRANI

North Korean leader Kim Jong-eun’s extended absence from public view opened a flood gate of rumors. It went from a military coup to broken ankles, with gout, diabetes and obesity also mentioned. International concern with Kim’s absence was justified, given the immense power this 31-year-old leader inherited from his father, Kim Jong-il, who passed away in December 2011.

An objective assessment of Kim’s dismal performance during the past two-and-one-half years is compelling: North Korea has become a more isolated and despised nation. The missile launches, nuclear test, threats of a pre-emptive nuclear attack, the brutal execution of his uncle, Jang Song-thaek, and the routine vitriol coming out of Pyongyang all contributed to North Korea’s pariah status.

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