The new young leader, Kim Jong-un, is said to have formidable management skills, but he will continue to adhere to his father’s fixed approach for the time being. Thus, any change in North Korea’s foreign and internal policies, even in the form of slight modifications, is not expected to happen for at least a few years.
During the last months of his life, Kim Jong-il himself showed he was interested in change, especially in terms of the country’s relations with the outside world. Bearing this in mind, other countries were also planning to open the doors for more interaction. However, Kim’s death ended all this speculation.
At the domestic level, North Korean citizens have no expectations for change and development and are generally resigned to life as it is in the current situation. This will help the young leader strengthen his grip on power and facilitate a controlled process of change in the country’s nuclear debate with the West.
Kim’s death will have no impact on the institutionalized culture of communism in North Korea.
The country’s unique communist ideology underwent some minor changes during the Kim Jong-il era. However, it will still be regarded as the main source of authority in the country’s daily life.
Starting a process of change at the beginning of his rule would be a very risky move for the young Kim Jong-un. So the world should not expect any opening up of the system in the near future.
Javad Mansouri is a political analyst who formerly served as Iran’s ambassador to China.
MS/HG
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MNA