Another Perfect Storm? Predictors of Radical Change in North Korea
Author: Benjamin Habib
Volume 4, Number 1 (Autumn 2008), pp. 21-41.
Abstract
Rapid internal transformation in North Korea is likely to occur through the confluence of change—a perfect storm—at key leverage points in the physical, ideational and institutional dimensions of the state. This article identifies four leverage points that merit close observation: (1) A reduction in the resource and income base of the regime elite. (2) A relaxation of informational controls would give the population a basis to compare their political system with those of other countries. (3) Endemic corruption which undermines key institutions of the state. (4) A power struggle resulting from an abrupt leadership transition.
About the Author
Ben Habib is a PhD student and academic tutor in international relations at Flinders University. Ben’s research interests include Asian regional security, American foreign policy, energy and environmental security. He has also worked for the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, taught English in China, and studied in South Korea. habi0015@flinders.edu.au.
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