Kim Jong Un Reshuffles North Korea's Defense Leadership

Is this a strategic defense upgrade or is Kim Jong Un coup-proofing his regime?

Published 2 days ago

Kim Jong Un Reshuffles North Korea's Defense Leadership

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Above: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in North Pyongan Province, North Korea, on Feb. 1. Image credit: AFP/KCNA via KNS/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-North Korea narrative

North Korea's military reshuffle was plain party business. The structural reforms were important to align with the WPK's future direction and create a disciplined, functioning chain of command. In doing so, the alterations have improved the country's defense posture by appointing individuals best suited to implement positive changes in key roles.

KCNA

Anti-North Korea narrative

This latest shake-up is a classic case of the Kim regime coup-proofing by filling key posts with loyalists rather than competent commanders to prevent any unified opposition from forming. It demonstrates that the only thing that matters to Kim Jong Un and his lackeys is their own political survival, the pariah state's effectiveness be damned.

38 North Belfer Center