Cultural Relations
Through the DPRK Information Membrane: Interview with Blaine Harden
In the second part of Sino-NK’s interview with Blaine Harden, the author of Escape from Camp 14 discusses the trials of life in defector society and its search for a defining leader, as well as borderlands journalism and the controversial AP bureau in Pyongyang.
Mobilizing Human Rights Infrastructure in 24 Languages: Interview with Blaine Harden
A young man named Shin Dong-hyuk stands at the forefront of a cultural shift that is changing the way the world perceives, and divides, North Korea the state and North Korea the people. In the first part of an outstanding new interview, Blaine Harden, the author of Shin’s story, speaks to Adam Cathcart about what it all means in part one of a three-part series.
Moranbong Band: Joseon Style Electronic Music on a New Level
Sino-NK’s Performing Arts Analyst Jimin Lee examines the Moranbong Band’s debut “Demonstration Concert” through the lens of its own name—that is, as a demonstration of its potential to act as bridge to the world with its “New Joseon Style” of pop musical performance.
The Historical Roots of Defensive Fundamentalism in North Korea: Maurizio Riotto
What are the roots of Korean skepticism towards China? SinoNK features a working paper by a top Italian Koreanist, with analysis by Aaron McNicholas.
Counterpoint to Basketball Diplomacy: Beuys in Beijing, Beethoven in Pyongyang
Dennis Rodman may have made a bigger international splash, but Michiyoshi Inoue’s visit to Pyongyang was the more exciting event. Adam Cathcart contemplates why.
A New Focus on Inter-Korean Relations: Twelve Policy Recommendations for Park Geun-hye
Jang Jin-sung offers policy wisdom to coincide with the February 25th inauguration of South Korea’s new president, Ms. Park Geun-hye.
McCarthy Didn’t Die, He Went to Seoul: McCarthyism in South Korean Politics
Amid an ideologically-tinged news landscape, Steven Denney and Christopher Green translate a spat of name-calling aimed at progressive Seoul City mayor Park Won-soon.
Considering a Reset of China’s ‘Special Relationship’ with North Korea: Huffington Post Live
What is the broader outlook for China’s relationship with North Korea in the aftermath of the DPRK’s missile test? SinoNK joins a conversation with the Huffington Post.
The Passing of Kim Jong-il: North Korea Still Mired in “Charismatic Politics”
Charisma is hard to obtain and harder to retain. It is also ephemeral. Kim Jong-un wants it, has some, but needs more. Roger Cavazos starts watching the sky in the first of our anniversary extravaganza.
