Victor Cha’s Cold Peace framework may dangerously misread North Korea by assuming long-term regime stability at a moment when the Kim regime’s internal fragility is rapidly deepening.

North Korea’s renewed alignment with China reflects mounting internal constraints, as Pyongyang seeks external stability amid rising uncertainty within the regime, while Beijing reinforces ties to preserve stability on its periphery.

North Korea is accelerating an unprecedented effort to install Kim Jong Un’s daughter as successor, but the faster the regime pushes, the greater the risk that elite resistance will widen the gap between manufactured legitimacy and real acceptance.

North Korea opened its once-every-five-years party congress touting economic progress, but persistent sanctions, structural stagnation, and early succession signaling will likely deepen elite uncertainty and strain internal cohesion.

North Korea’s early elevation of Kim Ju Ae suggests that concerns over Kim Jong Un’s longevity may be driving an accelerated and unusually risky dynastic succession.

Kim Ju Ae’s center-stage appearance signals a more prominent role this year as the regime elevates the next generation to ensure its survival amid internal strain and succession uncertainty. News Summary Kim Ju Ae, the daughter of Kim Jong Un, appeared at center stage during her first public visit to the family mausoleum, paying tribute alongside her parents and top officials on New Year’s Day. Her prominent positioning has intensified speculation that she may be being eleva

News Summary Kim Jong Un visited the tomb of Hyon Chol Hae to mark the third anniversary of his death, honoring the military marshal who...