On some levels, this is a huge development. It may also offer insight into the focus and desire of former North Korean “leader,” Kim Jong Il. Perhaps Il was more curious than anything else–trusting in the majority opinion of those surrounding him.
In a move that comes as quite a surprise, the current North Korean regime, led by Il’s son, Kim Jong Un, has agreed to suspend its nuclear weapons development, and cease uranium enrichment. Additionally international inspectors will be allowed to monitor activity within the nation’s nuclear complex. This compromise of sorts was based on an affordable aid offering from the United States. What type of aid? Food.
It seems that son is slightly more humanitarian in nature than father. Yes. How dare I use the word humanitarian in reference to the stifling culture; however, it has to start somewhere. Un seems more concerned about those in the country who are struggling to feed themselves, as opposed to competing with world powers in the realm of nuclear weapons technology. Simply put, one of these goals is achievable. Kim Jong Un has made an incredibly wise decision for the preservation, and more importantly, the growth of his fellow people.
North Korea has long been isolated from the rest of the world. Understanding that much of the North Korean culture is rooted in ancient traditions of honor and shame, the simple admittance that the nation is in need–that the nation could use help from any outside source–is a huge development in regards to potential relations moving forward.
