North Korea, 2009-2012

North Korea continues to be a country of great concern internationally, where future developments are uncertain, especially as a result of the succession to the leadership of Kim Jong-un following the death of Kim Il-sung. It is also a country which is relatively unknown and relatively little studied. This book provides a comprehensive, detailed survey of economic and political developments in the last few years. As such it provides many insights into the current trends which are likely to shape the country’s future direction.

"an invaluable resource to any scholar of North Korea's political, diplomatic and economic development after the collapse of the Soviet Union" - Christopher Griffin, in Pacific Affairs, reviewing Ian Jeffries' earlier book North Korea - A Guide to Economic and Political Developments, which ends in 2005

• Introduction Part 1: Political developments 1. A chronology of political developments from 10 June 2009 to 14 December 2011 2. A chronology of political developments following the death of Kim Jong-il on 17 December 2011 Part 2: Economic developments 3. Background 4. The currency reform of late 2009 5. Markets 6. Aid 7. Foreign trade 8. Direct foreign investment 9. Economic performance (including health)