“What makes this book a bit different that others on North Korea is its reliance on governmental surveys, conducted by NK, as well as those done by international agencies, as a consequence of offering food assistance. 10,000 North Koreans were surveyed in the country, as well as 7,000 escapees now in South Korea. 16,000 escapees are estimated as of 2010. Not all of NK's statistics are lies, though they may contain misclassifications and omissions.
The author relies on "anthropometry," Greek for "measurement of humans." Height, as opposed to weight, seems to be a leading indicator of health, and standard of living. It's also not subject to manipulation and can be easily measured. On this basis, North Koreans are shorter than their peers in the South.
The author also points out the Juche--NK's form of autarky--is the world's 10th largest religion as of 2007. Also, that NK is the world's 3rd largest opium, and 6th largest heroin, producer in the world. That South Korea is the world's 12th largest economy, and has 4.2 cars vs. 270K in NK. That NK now has 48K cell phones, though mostly for businessmen, foreigners, and government officials, and Internet service began in the country in 2004. He also pointed out that Kim Jong-Il had two luxury yachts valued at $13 million, which were confiscated by the Italian government.
All in all, a fascinating look into the welfare of everyday North Koreans. It's a bit of scholarly writing style, and bland in places, but still an interesting glimpse into the Hermit Kingdom.”
Ron B wrote this review Monday, December 26, 2011.
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