Even with the reemergence of Kim Jong Un (who reappeared after this interview was recorded), questions remain about the mysterious nature of the inner workings of North Korea. The Wilson Center’s, James Person, who accurately predicted that Kim was still in charge when others were engaged in speculation to the contrary, provides insight into North Korea’s lack of transparency and its recent attempts to engage with other nations that have been described as a “charm offensive.”   

About James Person

James F. Person is the Deputy Director for the Wilson Center’s History and Public Policy Program and coordinator of the North Korea International Documentation Project. Person is editor of the NKIDP Working Paper Series and co-editor of the Cold War International History Project Bulletin and History and Public Policy Program Critical Oral History Conference Series. He has also worked as a consultant on historical documentaries.