The World's Newest Dictator

The leader, Kim Jong Il, of NK died and his youngest son, Kim Jong Un, assumed leadership a few days after his father's death.  Some people question if Kim Jong Un will be an effective leader because he has limited experience.  NK has been going through periods of starvation because of droughts and floods causing crop failure.  In additon to the floods and droughts, NK life is difficult.  There are few cars on the roads. TV, radio and internet are controlled by the government.  Electricity is cut off at night.  NK is cut off from the outside world which leaves the people with limited freedom and they are controlled by the communist government.  The government propaganda is everywhere, even in private homes through radio broadcast.

Kim Jong Un assumed control when his older brothers were either uninterested or incapable.  Since KJU took power, he has " made several hostile moves towards South Korea" including sinking a warship. Many people believe this is to show that he has power.    It looks like there is a smooth transfer of power but outside observers think that there might be a struggle for power behind the scenes.  The transition has left NK unstable and struggling.  The country is in a time of change and uncertainty with an untested new leader.

This new leader is going to lead NK into dangerous territory.  People are not agreeing with the government, rebellion might break out.  I feel people are going to get tired of how their government deals with flooding, drought, and isolation from the outside world.  I feel nervous for our safety because of the attacks on SK and the NK nuclear program.    I think KJU seems like an unintelligent leader who could take out his aggression using the military.  Although he is leader, he may not be prepared to deal with the issues his country faces.  I'm worried for the NK people because they do not have a say with their health care and if things are going in country the way they are going now there will be many more deaths.  Maybe it is time for a new family to assume leadership.  

Smith, Patricia. "The World's Newest Dictator."  UPFRONT.   New York Times.  Vol. 144 No. 9.  January 30, 2012.