Simon Tisdall (Guardian Utd): Signals from the palace of smoke and mirrors

[Jack Rabbit]

From the Guardian Unlimited (UK)
Dated Friday February 11

Signals from the palace of smoke and mirrors
By Simon Tisdall

Inside the hermit kingdom, things are rarely what they seem. Reports last autumn of defecting generals, anti-regime graffiti, and disappearing portraits of the Dear Leader, Kim Jong-il, provoked excited speculation about insurrection in North Korea.
But like previous flurries concerning the world's most isolated country, the rumours came to nothing.

Earlier this month, state radio said Mr Kim, far from being overthrown, was planning to extend the family dynasty begun by his father.

"He stressed that if he falls short of completing the revolution it will be continued by his son and grandson," the radio quoted Mr Kim as saying.

Kim Jong-il the spoiled son of a powerful man who feels a great sense of entitlement. He acts irresponsibly and has never had to face consequences for his actions.

As we Americans have come to know, such men are very dangerous.

[applegrove]

1. The Palace of Smoke & Mirrors - the White House indeed

The Palace of Smoke & Mirrors - the White House indeed.