Are recent North Korean moves to ratchet up the nuclear threat related to an attempt on the life of dictator Kim Jong-un? According to this news item from South Korea’s JoongAng Ilbo, a well-placed intelligence source has told the newspaper that in the wake of an attempt on his life, the young leader has found it necessary to placate restive military hardliners by adopting their policies.
JoongAng Ilbo reporters Chang Se-jeong and Ser Myo-ja start off this way:
During a power struggle last year, there was an attempt on the life of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, a Seoul-based intelligence source has told the JoongAng Ilbo.
“Because the attempt was made in downtown Pyongyang and not during one of Kim’s trips outside the capital city, the authorities are paying careful attention,” said the source, who is well-informed about North Korean affairs.
Although the source didn’t reveal the exact timing of the attack or who was behind it, he said that it appeared related to the recent fall and rise of a particular general.
“It appears that before the demotion of Kim Yong-chol, director of the General Reconnaissance Bureau, the action was taken by disgruntled people last November,” the source said.
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