Revelations from a former diplomat highlight the disintegration of the North Korean regime.

The political landscape of North Korea becomes even more unsettling following the revelations of Ri Il-kyu, a former diplomat who defected from the embassy in Cuba. In his first interview with an international media outlet, Ri, who worked as a political affairs advisor, provides a chilling insight into the regime of Kim Jong-un and the state of North Korean society. His experience, from his direct interactions with the leader to his painful decision to leave his country, reveals a complex narrative of fear, control, and hopelessness. Ri describes Kim Jong-un as a leader who, despite his apparent good humor and approachability, is capable of committing terrible acts to ensure his own survival. In his encounters with the leader, Ri noted a disconcerting duality: an individual who may seem "ordinary" but is, in essence, a tyrant willing to sacrifice even his own people. This human yet monstrous portrayal of Kim serves as a recurring theme throughout the interview, where Ri points out that loyalty to the regime is declining, a reality that Kim attempts to counteract through increased repression and terror. Ri's defection is not merely a personal act; it reflects a broader phenomenon. According to him, corruption and the lack of freedoms have eroded the genuine loyalty of citizens, who live in a state of hopelessness. The influence of South Korean culture, through smuggled movies and music, has contributed to this shift. People do not consume this content due to a capitalist ideology, but as an escape from the monotony and hardship that characterize their daily lives. Ri observes that this cultural smuggling has created a palpable contrast between the realities of both countries, sowing the seeds of dissatisfaction in the hearts of North Koreans. Despite internal pressure, Ri maintains that the North Korean regime will never abandon its nuclear arsenal. He suggests that the country might seek an agreement to freeze the development of its weapons in exchange for relief from sanctions, but warns that such negotiations would not be conducted in good faith. Trust in the regime is nonexistent, and any attempt at dialogue could merely be a facade to further strengthen its military capability. The situation in North Korea is exacerbated by the international context. Ri points out that the recent relationship between North Korea and Russia has provided Pyongyang with temporary relief, allowing it to evade international sanctions and continue its armament program. However, he also believes that this alliance is fragile and temporary, and that Kim Jong-un still sees the normalization of relations with the United States as a crucial pathway for the regime's survival. Ri shares his personal defection story, marked by a painful and risky process. The decision to leave his life in the North and seek asylum in South Korea was driven by years of suffering and a final drop of despair. Despite having enjoyed a relatively privileged life compared to most North Koreans, his desire for freedom and a better future for his family led him to risk everything. His experience highlights the heartbreaking realities faced by those living under an oppressive regime. The health of Kim Jong-un has also been a subject of speculation, with reports suggesting that his obesity could threaten his life. However, Ri is skeptical about the impact that the leader's possible death would have on the stability of the regime. From his perspective, the system of control in North Korea is robust enough to survive the fall of its leader, as another malevolent figure could easily take his place. In a tone of hopelessness, Ri describes the current situation as a cycle in which North Koreans are stripped of their most basic aspirations. While previous leaders may have stolen freedom and rights, Kim has gone further, robbing even the hope from his people. This act, according to Ri, is the most despicable of all, leaving citizens without expectations for a better tomorrow. As Ri adapts to his new life in South Korea, he focuses on helping his family integrate into a radically different society. His story serves as a reminder of the risky lives many have left behind in search of freedom, and of the ongoing struggle faced by the North Korean people in their pursuit of dignity and human rights. Ultimately, Ri Il-kyu hopes that his defection will inspire change, not only in those wishing to escape but also in those who remain in North Korea, encouraging them to fight for reforms from within. Although his goals are modest, he simply desires for his people to be able to choose their jobs, enjoy enough food, and express their opinions freely. In a context where loyalty is forced and dissent is fatal, hope is an act of resistance.