Dissent in North Korea

[unhappycamper]

http://atimes.com/atimes/Korea/KOR-02-161213.html



Dissent in North Korea
By Joseph R DeTrani
Dec 16, '13

The announced execution of North Korea's de facto number two leader, Jang Song-thaek was a message from his uncle, and the country's boss, Kim Jong-eun, to his domestic audience and the international community that he's in charge; that anyone in North Korea who questions or doubts his absolute authority will be removed.

We should not be too surprised with this type of behavior from Kim Jong-eun. During his two years in power, he has replaced all of the senior leaders in the military, party and security services, all loyalists to his father, Kim Jong Il. The exception was the elevation of his uncle, Jang Song-thaek, married to Kim Jong-il's younger sister, Kim Kyong hui, to the second-most important position in the North.

In addition to being the vice chairman of the National Defense Commission and Director of the Korean Workers' Party Administrative Department, Jang Song-thaek was also appointed head of the newly established State Physical Culture and Sports Commission, a position that would give him access to and visibility with the international community.

Indeed, it was Jang who, during his visit to China in August 2012, had well-publicized substantive meetings with then president Hu Jintao and premier Wen Jiaobao, during which China agreed to enhanced economic and political cooperation with North Korea.