Kim Jong-un, China's Deng Xiaoping & North Korea's Reforms

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In summary, North Korean state television has shown live footage of leader Kim Jong-il reviewing a military parade with his youngest son and possible successor, Kim Jong-un. There is speculation that China wants North Korea to follow in its footsteps of state-controlled capitalism, and that China may be pushing for reforms in the country due to concerns over its military policies. It is surprising that someone as young and relatively unknown as Kim Jong-un would be the next leader, but it is noted that he was educated in the West. Ultimately, it is possible that the succession to Kim Jong-un may be a strategic move within the unique Kim family politics.
  • #1
rootX
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State television in North Korea has shown live pictures of the leader, Kim Jong-il, reviewing a military parade accompanied by his youngest son, Kim Jong-un.

There have been clear signs that China would like North Korea to develop in very much the same way as China itself did in the 1970s and 80s, leading to the rampant and highly successful state-controlled capitalism of recent years.

The main architect of this change was Deng Xiaoping. Interestingly, his only formal official position for years was his control over the military committee of China's Communist Party: not very different from the most important of the young Kim Jong-un's new jobs.

China clearly wants reform in North Korea. There have been various signs of its alarm over North Korea's unpredictable military policy.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-11509166

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-11432894


This is an informative thread about recent expected changes in NK politics while current leader seems to be in poor health position. I found it surprising that someone as unknown and young as Kim Jong-un would be next NK leader. But on the good side, he was educated in West.
 
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  • #2
rootX said:
But on the good side, he was educated in West.

This seems like a bold assumption
 
  • #3
Office_Shredder said:
This seems like a bold assumption

As from one the sources:
And in the odd politics of the Kim family, distinctly absurd to Western eyes, it may make sense to pass over Kim Jong-il's relatives and his two elder sons and hand on the succession to his youngest, who was educated in Switzerland.
 
  • #4
I don't think OS was questioning the Western education.
 
  • #5


As a scientist, it is important to approach this topic with objectivity and an understanding of historical context. The recent display of Kim Jong-un at a military parade and the comparisons to China's Deng Xiaoping and their economic reforms are significant developments in North Korea's political landscape.

It is clear that China, as a major ally and economic partner of North Korea, has a vested interest in seeing the country undergo similar economic reforms to those implemented in China. This could potentially lead to a more stable and prosperous North Korea, which would benefit both countries. The role of Deng Xiaoping in China's economic transformation cannot be underestimated, and it will be interesting to see if Kim Jong-un can emulate his success in North Korea.

However, it is important to note that North Korea's political system and situation is vastly different from that of China. The authoritarian regime in North Korea has tightly controlled the country's economy for decades, and any potential reforms would have to navigate this complex political landscape. It is also worth considering the potential impact of these reforms on the everyday lives of North Korean citizens, who have been isolated and oppressed for many years.

The recent signs of China's concern over North Korea's military policies are also significant. It suggests that China may be willing to use its influence to push for changes in North Korea's behavior. It will be interesting to see how this dynamic plays out in the coming years and what role China will play in shaping North Korea's future.

Overall, the developments in North Korea and its relationship with China are worth monitoring closely. As a scientist, it is important to approach these changes with an open mind and to consider the potential implications for both countries and the region as a whole.
 

1. Who is Kim Jong-un?

Kim Jong-un is the current leader of North Korea, following in the footsteps of his father, Kim Jong-il, and grandfather, Kim Il-sung. He has been in power since 2011 and is often considered one of the most secretive and controversial leaders in the world.

2. Who is Deng Xiaoping?

Deng Xiaoping was a Chinese politician and reformer who is credited with modernizing China's economy and opening up the country to the global market. He served as China's leader from the late 1970s until the early 1990s and is often referred to as the "architect" of China's economic reforms.

3. How did Deng Xiaoping's reforms impact North Korea?

Deng Xiaoping's reforms had a significant impact on North Korea, as China was one of North Korea's main allies and trading partners. With China's shift towards a more market-oriented economy, North Korea also began to experiment with economic reforms, although at a much slower pace. However, these reforms were not as successful in North Korea, and the country still maintains a state-controlled economy.

4. What are some of the key reforms that have been implemented in North Korea?

Some of the key reforms that have been implemented in North Korea include the establishment of special economic zones, allowing for limited foreign investment and trade, and the adoption of a new constitution that recognizes a market-based economy. However, these reforms have been slow and limited, and the country still operates under a strict totalitarian regime.

5. How has China's relationship with North Korea evolved since Deng Xiaoping's reforms?

China's relationship with North Korea has gone through various changes since Deng Xiaoping's reforms. While China continues to provide economic aid and support to North Korea, their relationship has become more strained in recent years due to North Korea's nuclear weapons program and frequent provocations. However, China remains a key ally of North Korea and continues to play a significant role in the country's economy and politics.

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