| ID | 079139 |
| Title Proper | Democratic people's Republic of Korea in 2006 |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Asmolov, Konstantin ; Suslina, Svetlana ; Park, Victoria |
| Publication | 2007. |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | The leader published simultaneously on the first day of 2007 in three central North Korean newspapers, Rodong Sinmun, Choson Inmingun, and Ch'ongnyon Chonwi, proclaimed the year just past an "unprecedented period in the chronicle of the life-giving Korean revolution imbued with ideas, when the country's positions reached the heights of a majestic and mighty power, which became a demonstration of the grandeur of the Korean nation." Accordingly, the year that just began was heralded as a "year of continued fulfillment of the Great Leader's design for building a powerful Homeland, a year when the country as a whole is permeated with the spirit of fresh accomplishments."1
"Acquisition of nuclear deterrent forces" was named the main event of 2006 in North Korea. These forces, says the New Year Day article, "is a mighty factor against the double-standard approach and the policy of sanctions and strangulation on the part of the U.S., a boost to the cause of peace and security in Northeast Asia."2 According to North Korean reports, nearly 100,000 people took part in the demonstration staged in support of the nuclear tests conducted on October 20, 2006.3
The year 2006 changed little in the domestic situation, which remained stable. The government machinery hummed along, mainly for "protocol". New monuments continued to be put up, as usual, to celebrate an anniversary or mark a visit by Kim Il Sung or Kim Jong Il to a site. Gala meetings were held or national rallies called, which were, as a rule, addressed by government representatives. On January 26, for example, a national convention of public service, party, and nongovernmental organizations was treated to a speech by Yang Hyong Sop, Vice Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly (SPA). A convention of activists of the Union of Agricultural Workers was hold |
| `In' analytical Note | Far Eastern Affairs Vol. 35, No.3; 2007: p47-62 |
| Journal Source | Far Eastern Affairs Vol. 35, No.3; 2007: p47-62 |
| Key Words | Korea ; Domestic Policy ; Foreign Policy ; North Korea |