Corée du Nord - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Dictatorship: North Korea is a totalitarian dictatorship ruled by the Kim dynasty. The supreme leader is Kim Jong-un, who inherited power from his father, Kim Jong-il, and grandfather, Kim Il-sung.
- 2. Isolation: North Korea is one of the most isolated and secretive countries in the world. It tightly controls information flow in and out of the country and restricts access to the internet and foreign media.
- 3. Nuclear weapons: North Korea has a nuclear weapons program and has conducted multiple nuclear tests in defiance of international sanctions. This has raised concerns about the country's willingness to use nuclear weapons and its impact on regional stability.
- 4. Human rights abuses: North Korea has been widely criticized for its human rights abuses, including political repression, forced labor camps, and restrictions on freedom of expression and movement. The country has been accused of committing crimes against humanity by the United Nations.
- 5. Famine: North Korea has faced severe food shortages and famines in the past, exacerbated by government mismanagement and international sanctions. The country relies heavily on foreign aid to feed its population.
- 6. Military strength: North Korea has one of the largest standing armies in the world, with over 1 million active-duty soldiers and a significant arsenal of conventional weapons. The country regularly conducts military exercises and has a history of provocations towards South Korea and the United States.
- 7. Juche ideology: North Korea follows the ideology of Juche, which promotes self-reliance, nationalism, and independence. The ideology was developed by Kim Il-sung and remains a central tenet of the country's political philosophy.
- 8. Cult of personality: The Kim dynasty is revered in North Korea, with the leaders portrayed as infallible and godlike figures. Portraits and statues of the Kims are prominently displayed throughout the country, and citizens are required to show loyalty and devotion to the leadership.
- 9. Limited economic development: North Korea's economy is largely state-controlled and has struggled to modernize and grow. The country faces chronic shortages of basic goods and services, and its infrastructure is outdated and poorly maintained.
- 10. International relations: North Korea has a tense relationship with the international community, particularly with the United States, South Korea, and Japan. The country has been subject to numerous rounds of sanctions and diplomatic pressure in response to its nuclear program and human rights abuses.