© 2018 American University Model United Nations Conference All rights reserved. No part of this background guide may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means whatsoever without express written permission from the American University Model United Nations Conference Secretariat.

Please direct all questions to [email protected] of of of of of of of of of of of of "Who are the Moro people? - Inquirer Opinion "CPP-NPA 'constraining' Duterte to declare - INQUIRER.net." 20 Oct. 2012, martial law - Manila Standard." 17 Oct. 2018, https://opinion.inquirer.net/39098/who-are-the- http://manilastandard.net/news/national/27824 moro-people. Accessed 23 Oct. 2018. 7/cpp-npa-constraining-duterte-to-declare-mart ial-law.html. Accessed 24 Oct. 2018. "Abu Sayyaf Group (Philippines, Islamist separatists) | Council on ...." "'They kill defenceless people': thousands flee https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/abu-sayyaf-g Philippine city of Marawi ...." 26 May. 2017, roup-philippines-islamist-separatists. Accessed https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/may/ 23 Oct. 2018. 26/they-kill-defenceless-people-thousands-flee -besieged-philippine-city-of-marawi. Accessed "Terrorism in Southeast Asia." 16 Oct. 2009, 24 Oct. 2018. https://fas.org/sgp/crs/terror/RL34194.pdf. Accessed 24 Oct. 2018. "Duterte fears spread of terror outside Mindanao | ABS-CBN News." 7 Mar. 2018, "The Demise of the Abu Sayyaf Group in the https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/03/07/18/duter Southern Philippines ...." 11 Jun. 2008, te-fears-spread-of-terror-outside-mindanao. https://ctc.usma.edu/the-demise-of-the-abu-say Accessed 24 Oct. 2018. yaf-group-in-the-southern-philippines/. Accessed 24 Oct. 2018. "Marawi one year after the battle: a ghost town still haunted by threat of ...." 21 May. "Abu Sayyaf terror group regrouping, looking 2018, to get back into business ...." 27 Sep. 2018, https://www.theguardian.com/global/2018/may/ https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/abu- 22/marawi-one-year-siege-philippines-ghost-to sayyaf-terror-group-regrouping-looking-to-get-b wn-still-haunted-threat-isis. Accessed 24 Oct. ack-into-business-of-kidnap-for. Accessed 24 2018. Oct. 2018. "House leaders rally extension of martial law "3 Abu Sayyaf caught planning attacks ahead in Mindanao » Manila ...." 23 Oct. 2018, of ... - ABS-CBN News." 17 Nov. 2017, https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/10/23/house-lea https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/11/17/17/3-abu ders-rally-extension-of-martial-law-in-mindanao -sayyaf-caught-planning-attacks-ahead-of-asea /. Accessed 24 Oct. 2018. n-summit-police. Accessed 24 Oct. 2018. "PNP backs third extension of martial law in "9 suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits killed in Mindanao | Inquirer News." 22 Oct. 2018, Basilan ... - ABS-CBN News." 4 May. 2018, https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1045490/pnp-back https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/05/04/18/9-sus s-third-extension-of-martial-law-in-mindanao. pected-abu-sayyaf-bandits-killed-in-basilan-cla Accessed 24 Oct. 2018. sh-military. Accessed 24 Oct. 2018. "History: Mindanao conflict and the Moro "Guide to the Philippines conflict - BBC News - Islamic Liberation Front ...." BBC.com." 8 Oct. 2012, https://www.c-r.org/where-we-work/southeast-a https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-1703802 sia/history-mindanao-conflict-and-moro-islamic 4. Accessed 23 Oct. 2018. -liberation-front. Accessed 17 Nov. 2018.

"Philippines-CPP/NPA (1969 – 2017) | Project "Association of Southeast Asian Nations Ploughshares." 1 Dec. 2017, (ASEAN)." http://ploughshares.ca/pl_armedconflict/philippi https://www.state.gov/p/eap/regional/asean/. nes-cppnpa-1969-first-combat-deaths/. Accessed 17 Nov. 2018. Accessed 24 Oct. 2018. "Guide to the Philippines conflict - BBC News - "New People's Army (NPA) - BBC.com." 8 Oct. 2012, GlobalSecurity.org." 16 Dec. 2017, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-1703802 https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/pa 4. Accessed 17 Nov. 2018. ra/npa.htm. Accessed 24 Oct. 2018. | POSITION 001 Ko In-Ho Minister of Agriculture

Date of Birth: 10/11/1977 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

In a session of the Supreme People’s Assembly held on July 27, 2016, a series of changes were made to restructure Kim Jong-Un’s cabinet. Among these changes was an appointment of native Mr. Ko In-ho to the position of the Minister of Agriculture. Prior to the vice premier’s appointment to the Kim cabinet, Ko In-ho served as the vice-chairman and later chairman of the Pyongyang City Rural Economic Committee, which served to stimulate the local growth of Pyongyang and promote stronger rural management. Due to his experience in this previous role, In-ho has strong administrative abilities, as well as a solid understanding of bureaucratic management. He has also demonstrated an unparalleled understanding of and enthusiasm for North Korea’s agricultural sector, both of which landed him his current position.

As the Minister of Agriculture for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Ko In-ho governs the many different facets of the North Korean agricultural scene. In-Ho manages agricultural regulation, promotes regulated farming practices, oversees research on genetics and other agricultural sciences, advocates for price setting, allocates agricultural subsidies, and conducts threat assessments of plant diseases and invasive species. Among these responsibilities, however, rests the overarching goal of North Korean self-sufficiency. Mandated by Kim Jong Un himself, Ko In-ho has been commissioned to work with his high ranking colleagues within the North Korean government, to plan and implement new goals for the country’s agricultural sector, a key component to the North Korea dependency dilemma. This new long-term plan for the country involves some specific goals, such as building greenhouses to promote the growth of food throughout the entire year, and hopefully eliminate the struggles that many citizens of the country face. Other aspects of the plan deal with broader value promotion, such as economic equality. As an important leader of the agricultural sector, Ko In-ho’s personal goal is to decrease the amount of inequality between urban and rural living conditions. He hopes to accomplish this goal with larger investment into the agricultural sector of the economy. Kim Jong Un, a starch opponent of outside aid acceptance, essentially wants In-ho to show the international community and the DPRK’s own people that they are capable of providing for their own citizens. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 001

Overt Powers

As Minister of Agriculture, In-Ho can consult with his teams of engineers and scientists that analyze the efficiency of current practices in the farming industry.

As Minister of Agriculture, In-Ho can authorize the distribution of funds for agricultural development initiatives from the ministry’s annual budget

As Minister of Agriculture, In-Ho can order meetings with companies and entities that are doing business in the North Korean agricultural sector. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 002 Wang Chang Uk Minister of Atomic Energy and Industry

Date of Birth: 05/29/1960 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

Having grown up in a tumultuous decade of dramatic raids, political campaigns, and terrorist attacks exchanged between North and , Wang Chang Uk took an interest in politics and military resources at a young age. As the Minister of Atomic Energy and Industry for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Mr. Wang Chang Uk is responsible for overseeing North Korea’s nuclear warfare, ballistic missile, biological warfare, and chemical warfare programs. In addition to these capacities, he also serves as the head of North Korea’s nuclear power program. Though the ministry is subordinate to the Supreme People’s Assembly Cabinet and the State Academy of Sciences, its bold stated mission is to build an independent source of nuclear power for the DPRK.

Until recently, officials from the ministry attended international discussions with other nuclear power agencies from around the world; however, recent sanctions have made it difficult for them to leave the country. Minster Wang Chang Uk has been sanctioned by the Isle of Mann, South Korea, the European Union, the United Nations, and the . These sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans. As a result, the Ministry of Atomic Energy and Industry has been forced to withdraw from international cooperation. The state hides the ministry’s membership from the international community.

Internally, the ministry works primarily with State Academy of Sciences, its immediate superior. It is also alleged that the entire ministry is a front for the Munitions Industry Department Nuclear Bureau. These allegations point to the fact that many members of the ministry may work for the Nuclear Bureau. The Bureau differs from the ministry because it is subordinate to the Munitions Industry Department which is an exclusively military department. This demonstrates that although the ministry’s stated mission places emphasis on it’s civilian role, the true priority of the ministry is the development of nuclear weapons. The Ministry is also responsible for the Second Economic Committee Fifth Bureau, which is directly in charge of manufacturing nuclear weapons. The Fifth Bureau is thought to be capable of producing enough weapons-usable plutonium and enriched uranium to produce 12 nuclear weapons a year.

In addition to the ministry’s nuclear responsibilities, it also manages North Korea’s other weapons of mass destruction. These include weaponized anthrax and smallpox as well as between 2,500 and 5,000 metric tons of chemical weapons. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 002

The North possesses and is capable of manufacturing mustard, phosgene, sarin, and V-type chemical agents. The Ministry of Atomic Energy Industry is responsible for overseeing approximately 12 chemical weapons factories and six major storage depots. The UN has alleged that the ministry has tested these chemical weapons on prisoners and the disabled.

Minister of Atomic Energy and Industry Wang Chang Uk is directly linked with North Korea’s nuclear production capabilities, but is also held responsible by the military officials and mainly Kim Jong-Un himself who hold ultimate authorization capabilities.

Overt Powers

As Minister of Atomic Energy and Industry, Wang Chang Uk can authorize the production of nuclear weapons.

As Minister of Atomic Energy and Industry, Wang Chang Uk can authorize the synthesis of biological and chemical weapons.

As Minister of Atomic Energy and Industry, Wang Chang Uk has access to scientific research, databases, and teams of scientists and engineers that provide knowledge about energy and weapon production. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 003 Kim Kyong-nam Minister of Commerce

Date of Birth: 05/09/1980 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

Making his debut as Minister of Commerce at a food festival commemorating the birth anniversary of the North Korean country founder Kim Il Sung, Kim Kyong-nam was appointed to his position in March of 2014. In the month prior, Kim Kyong-nam’s predecessor Ri Song-ho failed to get reelected to the Supreme People’s Assembly. Although the reasoning for this replacement remains unclear, the change has been seen by some as a purge sanctioned by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un himself to bolster his cabinet with personal connections. Ri Song-ho was one of a nationwide circle of officials who were ousted from their positions due to rumoured personal ties to Jang Song-Thaek, a political mentor and secondary, rival figure to Kim Jong Un. Kim Kyong-nam was one of 687 approved candidates who was elected unopposed for the position of Minister of Commerce, which may speak to his personal approval from the North Korean supreme leader.

Kim Kyong-nam’s particular ministry regulates external trade, and promotes economic growth. This ministry is separate from the Ministry of Finance, which takes care of more budgetary aspects of the cabinet. The Ministry of Commerce has a variety of broader roles such as promoting industry development, labor, employment relations and more.

Overt Powers

As Minister of Commerce, Kim Kyong-nam is responsible for working with organizations relating to trade and economics.

Kim Kyong’s ministry collects significant data in terms of employment, income levels, and other economic information within North Korea. He therefore has access to this information, as well as how and when it is released to the public. This is useful in affecting public perception of the economy.

Kim Kyong-Nam is responsible for being business professionals’ contact to the North Korean government and therefore is able to contact top CEOs in the business sphere in order to gauge opinions or gather information. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 004 Kim Chon-gyun President of the Central Bank

Date of Birth: 01/25/1968 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

Also an alternate member of the Workers’ Party of Korea Central Committee and deputy to Kim Jong Un’s Supreme People’s Assembly, Kim Chon-gyun is the current President of the Central Bank. Kim Chon-gyun held the position of the Central Bank Director from the years 2003-2013. During this time, Kim attempted to negotiate agreements with foreign banks and expanded the bank’s financial service offerings to domestic companies. In March of 2014, he was elected as deputy to the 13th Supreme People’s Assembly, and during the April session, he was officially appointed as President of the DPRK Central Bank.

The Central Bank was established on December 6, 1947, using the currency of the . There are currently over 220 branches, and it operates the Chŏnsŏng electric cash card. The Central Bank is the main usable bank in the entirety of the DPRK, due to desired political proximity by the government. Employee opposition to the Central Bank is grounds for immediate removal from their posts.

Due to many reissues of banknotes throughout the past few years, many citizens are deciding against putting their savings into the Central Bank and are instead hoarding their incomes. One of the Central Bank’s biggest obstacle is retention of its civilian customers.

Another obstacle has proved to be foreign exchange. the DPRK has a shortage of support overseas due to the country’s chronic trade deficit, large foreign debt, and dwindling foreign aid that has since constrained any economic development planned. Currently, the closest economic tie the DPRK has his with South Korea, although North Korea wishes to expand the economic foreign relations set in place.

Kim Chon-gyun has attempted to alleviate the DPRK’s lack of domestic and international investment with various measures. In 2015, the minister led a North Korean delegation to the 24th annual International Banking Congress in St. Petersburg. There, he advocated for on his country’s behalf when discussing the topic of Financial Market Development Prospects. In the same year, Kim Chon-gyun also announced a nation-wide push for credit card usage. In an attempt to create a domestic financial services industry in North Korea, Kim revealed preparations to introduce new forms of savings accounts, business loans, and credit cards, in order to promote economic development and combat the issue of domestic fund circulation North Korea is facing. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 004

Overt Powers

As President of the Central Bank, Kim Chon-gyun works to coordinate businesses cooperation within the domestic economy.

Inflation rate: By changing the DPRK’s currency values, Kim Chon-gyun can increase the purchasing power of DPRK citizens, or help draw in foreign countries to do trade in its markets.

As President of the Central Bank, Kim Chon-gyun coordinates and manages international banking transactions. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 005 Pak Chun Nam Minister of Culture

Date of Birth: 04/17/1965 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

The current North Korean Minister of Culture is Pak Chun Nam. The Ministry of Culture is one of the many functions of the North Korean Cabinet which is tasked with implementing all national policies and conducting administrative work for the State Affairs Commission, which is chaired by Kim Jong Un.

The Minister of Culture is responsible for numerous operations all relating to the cultural policies of the nation. In this way, the Minister of Culture works to ensure the protection and preservation of all the cultural landmarks in the nation and, essentially, maintains the state and strength of the national heritage. As a part of this task, Minister Pak Chun Nam must compile an official registry of historical and cultural sites that are to be protected or refurbished. This includes display in art galleries, museums, monuments, and parks. Another facet of this protection is support to the nation’s artists and various artist communities and societies. The Ministry can directly provide funds and other resources to artists or establish separate art councils who could then distribute resources to artists and organizations more efficiently.

The Minister of Culture is also responsible for coordinating with other cultural world leaders to organize international events promoting the arts such as film festivals, art galleries, and music symposiums. Minister Pak Chun Nam has sought to increase the accessibility of creative activities and outlets for the DPRK’s citizens. In doing this, the Minister of culture works towards the proliferation of artistic expression in order to broaden the cultural heritage of the nation.

On a more personal note, Minister Pak Chun Nam is a dedicated government official who has focused his work on incorporating Korean cultural elements with other countries. Just recently, Minister Pak Chun Nam organized an international music competition in North Korea, a competition that hosted several foreign delegations. On approaching international politics, Minister Nam would argue that nations should be connected through their shared appreciation for culture and art and that international cooperation through these mediums is possible. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 005

Overt Powers

As Minister of Culture, Pak Chun Nam can directly provide funds and other resources to artists or establish separate art councils who could then distribute resources to artists and organizations more efficiently.

The Minister of Culture can organize international events promoting the arts such as film festivals, art galleries, and music symposiums.

As Minister of Culture, Pak Chun Nam has connections with international cultural leaders and embassies that he has worked with in the past for different events or performance exchanges. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 006 Song Chun-sop Minister of Fisheries

Date of Birth: 10/08/1977 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

The Minister of Fisheries for The Democratic People's Republic (DPR) of Korea is Song Chun-sop. As Minister of Fisheries, Song Chun-sop is responsible for the success of the fishery industry in the DPRK. This is distinct from the fishing industry, as fisheries relate to what is commonly known as “farm-raised” fish, where fish are hatched and raised in specialized tanks, Standard fishing refers to “wild-caught” fish, which requires the use of boats and fisherman. However, these industries are highly related due to the growing concern over illegal smuggling and black market fishing.

While the North Korean economy is far from a free market, the past inability of the state to organize fishing and supply enough fuel for boats, has lead to a rise in an underground market for fish. Because private trade is seemingly non-existent in the DPRK, there has been a rise in smuggled goods for private fishing from . This is also a problem internally; state-owned companies and private fishers are so co-dependent that trying to disentangle them would not only be nearly impossible, but prove disastrous for the economy. The coast guard and customs officials for the DPRK and China have both assumed passive roles in terms of smuggling. Other trade that is not sponsored by the North Korean government is seen as beneficial to both economies.

Minister Song Chun-sop is interested in building a fishing economy that could feed more people, increase the labor market, and dissuade citizens from using their own means, rather smuggled means, in order to catch and sell fish. That is, Song Chun-sop is seeking to expand fisheries and the industry of fish farmers. This would improve the quality of life for citizens across North Korea.

In that vein, there are also concerns about how fish are being distributed and preserved for long-term storage. This has included freezing, salting, canning and pickling. As this insight could be useful for other agricultural industries, cooperating with officials with similar agricultural capacities could be potentially beneficial to increase the DPRK’s food supply chain. In fact, in 2017, Son Chun-sop attended the Second Annual International Fisheries Forum and exhibition of fisheries, aquatic products and technologies in . NORTH KOREA | POSITION 006

Overt Powers

As the Minister of Fisheries, Song Chun-sop has some international fishery and agriculture contacts from the symposiums and forums he has attended.

As Minister of Fisheries, Song Chun-sop has contacts at the coast guard and at customs who are also concerned with the threat of smuggled goods.

As Minister of Fisheries, Song Chun-sop can authorize the distribution of some funds for fishery initiatives from the ministry’s annual budget, separate from the Ministry of Agriculture. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 007 Jong Yong-su Minister of Labour

Date of Birth: 08/26/1978 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

Jong Yong-su is North Korea’s current Minister of Labor, and as such is in charge of all of the work-related affairs of North Korea. His department is in charge of setting labor standards, labor dispute mechanisms, employment, workforce participation, and training, among other duties related to the workforce. While little is known about Jong as a person, his branch of government has been under scrutiny from nations such as the United States because of the country’s use of forced labor. Every year, thousands of North Koreans are sent abroad (most recently, to Russia) to work in specific sectors, including mining and other labor-heavy jobs, often as a punishment or form of reeducation. In 2017, the United States imposed sanctions on Jong Yong-su and some of his colleagues such as the First Vice Minister of the Ministry of People's Security, due to the use of forced labor on its own citizens. The employment of forced labor has been a controversial part of North Korean society for years, and Jong should be concerned about the human rights abuse accusations against him and his department.

Overt Powers

As Minister of Labour, Jong Yong-su can intervene and be involved in any labor disputes in North Korea.

As Minister of Labour, Jong Yong-su regulates employment opportunities and job availability.

As Minister of Labour, Jong Yong-su oversees social security and access to governmental services. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 008 Ri Yong-ho Minister of Foreign Affairs

Date of Birth: 07/10/1956 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

Ri Yong-ho is a Korean diplomat who has been serving as the Minister of Foreign affairs since 2016. Ri was born on the 10th of July, 1956 in Pyongyang. He graduated from the prestigious Namsan High School before studying at the Pyongyang Foreign Language Institute, majoring in English. After university he entered the foreign service of the DPRK in 1978, and has served numerous posts within the Ministry of Foreign affairs until his promotion to Minister.

Ri’s first position was as a policy staffer, after which he was promoted to secretary, and, in 1979, was stationed at the DPRK’s diplomatic mission in Harare, Zimbabwe. He operated in Zimbabwe for four years until his transfer to North Korea’s embassy in Stockholm. In 1988 he returned to Korea where he continued work in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs domestically. From here, he worked primarily within the MoFA’s Bureau of International Organizations, first as a section chief, then as the deputy Director-General. One of Ri’s most prominent career moments was during the denuclearization talks that occured between the DPRK and the Clinton Administration. While some progress was made, United States’ demand for total and unilateral disarmament on behalf of North Korea prior to any peace agreement rendered the negotiations unsuccessful.

At the turn of the millennium, Ri was given the title Ambassador at Large, and served as the ambassador to numerous different European countries, including the United Kingdom. Throughout the early 2000s, he continued as a councilor and negotiator until his promotion to Vice-Minister in 2010. Ri would serve as the chief diplomat in the 2011 Six Party Talks between foreign services of the DPRK, Republic of Korea, , China, the US and the Russian Federation, seeking to address general security concerns within the Asia Pacific region. In 2014, Ri would be elected as a deputy to the 13th session of the Supreme People’s Assembly and two years later, be promoted to Minister of Foreign affairs, and elected to the politburo.

Since his promotion to minister, Ri has once again distinguished himself on numerous occasions on the international stage, especially with both the recent increase of tensions and simultaneous increase of diplomatic relations with the Trump administration. This includes an orchestrating an additional summit in Manila between both Korean governments, China, and Russia. Ri has increased his presence at the United Nations General Assembly where he has publicly criticized the Trump administration. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 008

Overt Powers

Ri is fluent in English and has been a master diplomat on the issue of nuclear proliferation on the Korean peninsula, especially in negotiations with the United States.

Ri’s acts as both Kim Jong-Un’s primary advisor and influence on all things related to foreign policy, as well as a dedicated representative and communicator for the DPRK’s policy goals abroad, often times serving as a direct proxy for Kim, as he does not frequently leave Korea.

As minister, Ri Yong-ho has the final authority (only behind Kim Jong Un) on the diplomatic actions of the MoFA. This includes the ability to deploy or recall ambassadors, and can determine the level and nature of the DPRK’s relations with any given country or non-state actor. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 009 Jang Hyok Minister of Railways

Date of Birth: 03/15/1969 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

North Korea’s current Minister of Railways is Jang Hyok. He was appointed in 2009 by the Premier of North Korea, who is chosen by North Korea’s unicameral parliament. The duties of the Minister of Railways are purely economic, as opposed to dealing with defense or security. The Minister of Railways implements fiscal policies according to what is set forth by the Workers’ Party of Korea.

The Ministry of Railways has five major factories operating under its oversight: the Kim Chong-t'ae Works in Pyongyang, the 4 June Rolling Stock Works in , the Railway Factory, the 7.6 Vehicle Parts Factory and the Pyongyang Rolling Stock Repair Works. Beyond these production factories, the Ministry has four research institutes for design review, exploration of new technologies, and product inspection. The Railway Ministry also directs a large network of sports clubs across the country, including in the sports of football, , , , and tennis.

The Ministry of Railways’ focus is the Korean State Railway. North Korea’s rail system was originally built in the early 1940’s, during the Japanese Occupation of Korea. In 1946, the Provisional People’s Committee for North Korea nationalized all railways north of the 38th Parallel, and the rail system came under control of the People’s Committee for Transportation. The system sustained extensive bombing damage during the , but was rebuilt by the end of the 1950s with the help of countries like China, the USSR, and . In the 1960’s, electrification and diesel engines arrived to North Korea’s rail system, followed by considerable attention to urban transit in the 70’s and 80’s which showed promise but ultimately failed. By the 1990s, progress in terms of rail infrastructure had ground to a halt because of the economic crisis which persisted into the 2000s. In 2000, talks of the building of lines between North and South Korea began. The lines were completed in 2007 but are not in regular use. In the second decade of the 21st century, China and Russia began to cooperate with North Korea to help modernize its rail system. Today, China and Russia are the only countries with which North Korea has open rail links.

North Korea’s transportation policy focuses on rail as the primary mode of transportation for both people and goods, with commuter and long distance trains for passengers and freight transport for raw materials and import-export traffic. In recent years, there have been efforts to move towards increased road transport over short distances due to better cost effectiveness. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 009

Normal operation of the rail system is severely impeded by literally crumbling infrastructure. Power outages are common and chronic, and the infrastructure is very poorly maintained with many bridges and tunnels in critical condition. Communication equipment dates back to the 70’s, and the poor infrastructure limits average train speeds to between 12 and 37mph. Jang Hyok has been pushing for greater investment development in the North Korean science and tech industries to enhance the current outdated railroad infrastructure throughout the DPRK.

Overt Powers

As the Minister of Railways, Jang Hyok controls production of locomotives and rolling stock.

Jang Hyok’s ministry conducts research on technological innovation that can be applied to railways.

As the Minister of Railways, Jank Hyuok manages the construction and maintenance of railway infrastructure. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 010 Kim Kwang-chol Minister of Post and Telecommunications

Date of Birth: 12/14/1982 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

The current Minister of Post and Telecommunications is Kim Kwang-chol. His first significant position was director of Central Information and Communications Bureau, under the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications. As director, he brought about modernization of broadcasting equipment. He was also part of the introduction of country’s domestic telephone network Koryolink. Kim is also alternate (candidate) member to Workers’ Party of Korea Central Committee. He was elected a deputy in 12th Supreme People’s Assembly in March 2009 and he was re-elected in 2014. In 2015, he was appointed as Minister of Post and Telecommunications.

The Ministry is responsible for the North Korean Postal Service, telephone system, mint stamps, and media such as television and print press. Specifically, the North Korean Postal Service is in charge of postal communications, telegrams, phone service, TV broadcasts, newspapers, etc. Agents of North Korean National Security Agency are stationed at ministry’s office to inspect mail and monitor residents.

North Korean communications are extremely limited and isolationist. There are only three TV channels in Pyongyang, and one in the rest of the villages. Broadcasting is tightly controlled by the state and is used as propaganda. In the entire country, there are two AM radio broadcasting networks and one FM network, and all of these stations are monitored and related to government. The official government station is the Korean Central Broadcasting Station. While phones used to be exclusively for government officials, a long application process now allows citizens to get cell phones. In 2017, 69% of households owned a mobile phone.

The Ministry has been under fire in recent years. In 2010, ministry participated in cyber-attack on South korea using IP address leased from China. Kim’s predecessor as Minister of Post and Telecommunications, Sim Chol-lo, was reportedly executed in 2016. In 1992, the minister and all related officials of the ministry were fired and the Minister, Vice Minister, and their families were sent to prison camps. They had wasted national finances for import of factory machinery to produce fiber-optic cables from the UK. In 2001, employees of the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications were sent to a prison camp because they had accidentally broadcasted Chinese TV programs to residents of the Yangkang Province. Because of this record, Kim Kwang-chol should have particular caution with how he goes about his job. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 010

Overt Powers

As the Minister of Post and Telecommunications, Kim Kwang-chol can choose to censor certain websites or digital channels on behalf of the North Korean government.

As the Minister of Post and Telecommunications, Kim Kwang-chol also has the ability to use official digital channels to garner public support, show propaganda, or make clear North Korean positions.

As the Minister of Post and Telecommunications, Kim Kwang-chol can collect data on North Korean citizens, revealing trends, opinions, and interests. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 011 Kim Tok-hun Vice Premier

Date of Birth: 02/17/1980 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

Kim Tok-hun is one of nine vice premiers that helps the Premier of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Kim Tok-hun is an important member of the DPRK’s government because he was the former diplomat to South Korea and was just recently removed from that position due to his promotion. In 2017 he was appointed as a vice premier by The People’s Assembly to help the Premier, Pak Pong-ju. Currently, Kim Tok-hun acts as the Vice Premier of Machine Industries that holds broad managerial powers over machine and related industries.

The Premier of Machine Industries is in charge of all functions regarding machinery including the production, maintenance, and development of machinery. This machinery includes those that service companies, consumers, and other functions that include the economy. The largest machinery production sector is the military in North Korea. This sector chiefly includes the production of guns and other weapons, however, trucks and ways to transport military goods are included as well.

Overt Powers

Kim Tok-hun has established relationships with South Korean officials because of his previous diplomatic position there.

As vice premier, Kim Tok-hun controls the production of some consumer and industry goods so he can influence markets within the country to a certain extent.

As vice premier, Kim Tok-hun has a circle of people that he advises in regards to improving the machines that the country uses in related industries such as mining. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 012 Jang Kil-ryong Minister of Chemical Industry

Date of Birth: 01/07/1979 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

The current Minister of Chemical Industry in North Korea is Jang Kil-ryong. He was recently given this position, with his appointment declared in April of 2017.

The Minister of Chemical Industry is responsible for the development of nuclear power and weapons. There are various organizations that are included with this including, but not limited to, the Atomic Energy Research Institute at the College of Physics in Yongbyon, the nuclear power plant in Sinpo, the Physics Department of Kanggye Defense College, as well as the various uranium mines in Kusong, Suchon, and other places in the DPRK. Part of the position of Minister of Chemical Industry is inspecting and observing various chemical industry construction sites to ensure its smooth operation and organization. This oversight of construction fields consists of management for the timeliness of each project, such as ensuring sure workers continue working despite the extreme conditions they may be facing, and pushing for adherence to scheduled deadlines.

North Korea has been actively developing nuclear technology since the 1950s. The DPRK is believed to have conducted several nuclear tests since 2006, with no clear endpoint in sight. The DPRK is set on continuing the expansion of its nuclear programs, despite warnings from several countries that oppose this. The Minister of Chemical Industry needs to ensure that all of these nuclear power developments are going as planned.

Overt Powers

As Minister of Chemical Industry, Jang Kil-ryong oversees the development and maintenance of North Korea’s nuclear arsenal.

As Minister of Chemical Industry, Jang Kil-ryong is in charge of working with businesses to expand North Korea’s capability to produce.

As minister of Chemical Industry, Jang Kil-rong has a team of scientists that he works with in order to engineer chemical technologies. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 013 Kim Man Su Minister of Electrical Industry

Date of Birth: 08/24/1976 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

North Korea’s current Minister of Electrical Industry is Kim Man Su. The Ministry of Electrical Industry was begun in 2007 when the Ministry of the Electricity and Coal Industry was broken in two. This was done in punishment for an electrical shortage that year during which Minister of Electricity and Coal Industry Ju suggested redirecting the electricity from his leader’s personal residence and using that. Thus, his ministry was suppressed, and he himself was disciplined.

As minister, Kim Man Su oversees North Korea’s hydro electric plants. These plants can not hope to supply the electricity needed by the country. They are hampered by antiquated and run down networks, and many are still closed as the result of a flood that occured over twenty years ago. The energy shortages in North Korea are so bad that the per capita availability of electricity is lower than it was in 1970. It is the hope of the North Korean government is to one day establish a joint power grid with Russia or the South. To that end, Kim Man Su has traveled to Russia to negotiate for energy assistance. Such aid might also be in negotiation from the U.S. as talks continue with the Trump government.

Covert Powers

As Minister of Electrical Industry, Kim Man Su can negotiate power sharing agreements with other countries.

As Minister of Electrical Industry, Kim Man Su can control the amount of coal production.

As Minister of Electrical Industry, Kim Man Su can control the amount of hydroelectric production, along with electric supply. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 014 Jang Jung-sun Minister of Public Health

Date of Birth: 06/21/1975 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

The North Korean Minister of Public Health is Dr. Jang Jung-sun. While he was appointed by Kim Jong-un and approved by the Supreme Leader’s Assembly, Dr. Jun-sun made his international debut at the 71st World Health Assembly. There, the doctor proudly declared that North Korea had universal healthcare, a pillar commitment of the World Health Organization. But he also criticized the WHO for not intervening in the suffering of the North Korean people with health crises, due to political differences.

North Korea offers free universal healthcare to all of its citizens, with a national medical service and health insurance system. Beginning the 1950’s until the mid-1980’s, North Korea greatly emphasized healthcare. Healthcare was well available in cities, as well as pharmacies and specialized care. Programs of mandatory health checkups and immunizations were initiated. However, in the 1990’s, the healthcare system was hit hard by the country’s economic difficulties, natural disasters, and food and energy shortages. These factors resulted in a lack of basic medicines, running water, and modern equipment, and the situation was further exacerbated by economic embargoes and blockades by the international community.

North Korean medical infrastructure has not recovered all the way from the difficulties of the 1990s and 2000s. Many of the hospitals are still the ones built in the 60’s and 70’s. Today, many hospitals in North Korea still face energy shortages.

In terms of public health, North Korea struggles with malnutrition as a result of food shortages and widespread extreme poverty, leading to high prevalences of related diseases, such as stunting. Sanitation also is an issue; while most people have access to toilets, 93% of sanitation systems are not connected to sewers but rather used to fertilize, which contaminates water and spreads intestinal parasites. In fact, in 2009, one third of school aged children in North Korea were assessed as having diseases caused by intestinal parasites.

Infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, and hepatitis B are endemic to North Korea, meaning they are at constant levels in the population. Non-infectious diseases that affect the North Korean population include cardiovascular diseases, which are linked to high levels of alcohol consumption and smoking especially in adult males. Pneumonia and diarrhea are among the leading causes of death of children. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 014

Humanitarian organizations have not been able to fully engage with the North Korean health crises, partially because of the political tensions, but also because of the discrepant or false medical data available about the region. Dr. Jang Jung-sun is pushing for greater humanitarian aid and resource support for North Korean people who are facing medical emergencies, but also never fails to mention his “comrade” Kim Jong-un in his speeches. They both, according to Jang Jung-sun are calling for the modernization of North Korean medical and pharmaceutical industries.

Overt Powers

The Minister of Public Health has control over the healthcare funding that North Korea gets from the state, and can decide how to allocate it.

The Minister of Public Health oversees the healthcare system, ordering and controlling inspections, and setting regulations and practices.

The Minister of Public Health evaluates the state of public health in North Korea and can report that back to the rest of the NK Cabinet or the international community. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 015 Pak Pong-ju Premier

Date of Birth: 04/10/1939 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

Pak Pong-Ju is the two-time Premier of The Cabinet, also called the Prime Minister, of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. Pak was born on the 10th of April, 1939, in Hamgyong. Unlike many of his colleagues, Pak began his career in the industrial sector of the Korean economy, laying the foundation for an ascent into a higher administrative career within the central government.

Pak began his career with the Workers Party of Korea in 1962, as the manager of the Yongsong Food Factory in Ryongchon. He would continue in the food industry until 1980 when he migrated to the chemical industry after being elected to be an alternative member of the WPK Central Committee by the 6th Party Congress. Three years later, Pak would be appointed the secretary for the Namhu’ng Youth Chemical Complex, one of the largest chemical plants in the country.

In 1992, Pak would once again transfer from the chemical industry over to light industry. He would become the principal deputy of Kim Kyong-hui, then Director of Light Industry and sister of Kim Jong-Il. He would become her deputy in the period between 1994 and 1998, when the WPK Department of Light Industry was consolidated into the Economic Policy Inspection Department.

Pak would be elected to the Korean legislature, the Supreme People’s Assembly in 2003, this would also mark the beginning as his first term as premier. Throughout his first term, he would become far more influential within the Korean technocracy, and a trusted aide to Kim Jong-Il. Pak would travel to China with a special Korean delegation in 2004, 2005 and in 2006. The outcome of these delegations was the sharing of Chinese expertise with regards to economic planning and development, as well as the assembly of a special team of Korean policy analysts seeking enhance and fine-tune the current system of economic planning.

In 2007, Pak would be dismissed from his position as a result of a misuse of official funds. Though as Kim Kyong-Hui and Jang Song-Taek became more influential within the government, he was largely able to restore his standing. In 2010 he became one of the foremost advocates for the protection of labor rights within the DPRK, and in would become a policy advisor on various issues within the central government until he was appointed to be the head of the Light Industry department in 2012. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 015

In 2013, with Kim Jong-Un succeeding his father, Pak would become a member of the Workers Party of Korea Politburo Standing Committee, and be appointed once again the premier of the cabinet. Throughout Kim Jong-Un’s administration, Pak has been one of the leading experts in the transition of the Korean economy from a largely manufacturing-based economy to a consumer-based economy.

Overt Powers

As Prime Minister, Pak is in charge of setting the priorities of the Supreme Leader’s Assembly.

As Prime Minister, Pak nominates government officers to submit to the assembly in regard to appointments within the administration.

As Prime Minister, he signs acts into law the deal with domestic affairs and has an important vote within the assembly. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 016 Kim Yo-jong Vice Director of the Propaganda and Agitation

Date of Birth: 09/26/1987 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

Kim Yo-jong is the de facto leader of the Propaganda and Agitation Department (PAD) for the Democratic People’s Republic of North Korea. She is the current leader Kim Jong-Un’s sister and has a lot of trust and responsibilities placed on her including being an alternate member of the North Korean Politburo. Growing up, Kim Yo-jong and her brother we very close, having spent a lot of time together as children abroad, away from their parents. Kim Jong-Un trusts her as a political advisor and confidante. In fact, it is rumoured that she took over head of state in 2015 as her brother was seeking medical treatment. Kim Yo-jung is believed to have studied at Kim Il-sung Military University, and at Kim Il-sung University, where she studied Computer Science.

While it is known that Kim Yo-jong holds a vice-ministerial post, the specifics of her role are unknown to outsiders. Kim is a key advisor to Kim Jong-Un and she is one of the few people that he trusts to be in his ‘inner circle’ for advising and trips. She is one of the few people that were permitted to follow Kim Jong-Un in the 2018 Winter Olympic Games to South Korea.

The Propaganda and Agitation Department is also known as the Publicity and Information Department in North Korea and is in charge of the creation and distribution of various forms of propaganda to the people of the DPRK. PAD is under the Secretariat of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea. This department is the highest propaganda organization in the country and is where all official documents and narratives for the country originate from. PAD is less known to control the press and other forms of speech in the country but it is a duty that it still holds presence. To ensure that the image of PAD is not tarnished, the department blames all acts of censorship on the Ministry of Culture. PAD sets censorship and limitation laws for speech and press as well.

Kim Yo-jong plays a critical role in North Korea because her work ensures that the people in power are not questioned by supporting their personas and imagery. It is also clear that she holds some direct political influence through her intimate personal connections. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 016

Overt Powers

Kim Yo-jung controls propaganda about her brother and acts as an advisor for his persona that he takes on for the public.

She determines the rules of the press and propaganda campaigns for government officials.

She plays an important role in the Politburo which means she is a key advisor for Kim Jong-Un. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 017 Ji Jae Ryong DPRK ambassador to China

Date of Birth: 02/17/1940 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

Born in 1940 in the South Hamgyo’ng Province, Ji Jae Ryong has consistently been involved in politics since he graduated from Kim Il-so’ng University from the social sciences program offered at the institution. After graduation, Ji became the Vice Chairman of the Kim Il-so’ng Youth League (KISYL), and the elected Chairman of the Korean Student’s Union (KSU). Through Ji’s position in the KISYL and KSU, he was able to travel outside of North Korea many times. During this time, he met many influential figures and established contacts with others, which helped him make developments into a career as an ambassador.

In January of 1981, Ji was appointed to become an ambassador for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where he primarily focused on Central and Eastern Europe. Through this appointment, Ji held diplomatic positions in the former and Yugoslavia.

In the early 1990s, after about a decade of serving in various European countries, Ji returned to the DPRK where he worked as a section chief in the WPK International Affairs Department. After much hard work at this position, in 1996 he was promoted and became the Deputy Director of the WPK International Affairs Department. From around 2004-2007, Ji was seemingly inactive in the North Korean government. However, he reemerged in 2007 as the Deputy Director in the WPK Propaganda and Agitation Department.

On October 26, 2010 the PRC Foreign Ministry announced that Ji was to be the new North Korean ambassador to the People’s Republic of China. Ji Jae Ryong continues to carry a lot of pride for North Korea and enjoys making new connections to preserve the DPRK government. He currently engages China in diplomatic matters and dialogue, and carries the goal of strengthening North Korean-Chinese relations. Ji is also an alternate member of the Workers’ Party of Korea Central Committee. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 01

Overt Powers

As the DPRK ambassador to China, Ji Jae Ryong has established many political and business contacts in China, and around the world during his time traveling elsewhere.

As the DPRK ambassador to China, Ji Jae Ryong communicate and reports the economic and developments of his host country, China, back to the DPRK.

As the DPRK ambassador to China, Ji Jae Ryong helps develop North Korea’s foreign policy and gauges the foreign policy of other nations. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 018 No Kwang-chol Minister of the People’s Armed Forces

Date of Birth: 1956 Home Country: North Korea

Biography

No Kwang-chol is a general in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. While Kim Jong Un is the Supreme Commander of North Korea’s armed forces, No Kwang-chol is essentially the Minister of Defense. He just recently assumed the position in June 2018 following a military leadership “restructuring”. Little is known about Kwang-chol outside of the administration, however, his attitude towards nuclear development is far tamer than his predecessors. Part of the reason he was put in place was to have the military comply better with denuclearization following the Singapore Summit. Unlike generals in the past, he is less likely to disagree with a formal path towards denuclearization. Likewise, Kwang-chol is staunchly loyal to the Supreme Leader and has his ear on many subjects regarding military action.

The main function of the Ministry of the People’s Armed Forces is to direct and supply military actions. There is a significant focus on logistics with policies directing medical care, food, munitions, fuel, and personnel supply. The Ministry can also interact with foreign military leadership and diplomatic agencies. Since the death of Kim Jong Il, the MPAF has become far more independent and less controlled by the General Staff. While technically the civilian wing of the military, the line between the two is often blurred.

Overt Powers:

As Minister, Kwang-chol is able to direct supplies to the military in the form of medicine, food, fuel, etc. in order to keep the armed forces running efficiently.

As Minister, he is able to open diplomatic talks with foreign defense ministries and meet with foreign military leadership.

As Minister, he can help draw up battleplans for military maneuvers and take action with the approval of the Supreme Leader. NORTH KOREA | POSITION 019 Jang Jun-sang Minister of Public Health

Date of Birth: Unkown Home Country: North Korea

Biography

Jang Jun-sang is the Minister of Public Health for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. There is little known about the personal life of Jun-sang, however, his role as Minister of Public Health is of the utmost importance to the state. The Minister gave the world a glimpse at North Korea’s health policies during the 71st World Health Assembly at the United Nations in 2018. The key policy in North Korea is “Health for All” and guarantees free healthcare to all its citizens without discrimination. Whether or not this is put into practice is unknown. Jun-sang has made many claims regarding the quality of North Korea’s healthcare system. This includes the construction of a massive hospital center with specialized care for citizens. Jun-sang also argues that “unethical” sanctions have impacted the government’s ability to provide high quality healthcare to the people. Under his view, the DPRK wishes to see an expansion of the socialist-style healthcare system to other nations and also obtain the ability to gain more quality services within the country.

Despite the overtures made by Jun-sang, UN observes have noted that North Korean healthcare is lacking in many places. The biggest problems the country faces are malnutrition, polluted water supplies, and poor medicinal access. There is a particular problem with tuberculosis and a lack of drugs to treat the disease. Likewise, all of the aforementioned problems are most present in rural areas of the country.

Overt Powers:

As Minister, Jun-sang is able to set the health policy for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

As Minister, he can help decide who gets access to which drugs and the priorities of the nation’s hospitals.

As Minister, he controls national relief for health-related disasters and local emergencies such as disease outbreak.