With the death of North Korean dictator Kim Jong-il, his youngest son, Kim Jong-un could assume the leadership role or a collective government could be formed to act on his behalf. Richard Bush, who directs the Center for Northeast Asian Policy Studies says either way, the best course of action for the U.S. and its allies is to be on guard while hoping for the best outcome.
Asia & the Pacific
East Asia’s evolving regional order
Commentary
Kim Jong-il’s Death and North Korea’s Succession Process
December 19, 2011