The Hermit King
The Dangerous Game of Kim Jong Un
by Chung Min Lee
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Pub Date Nov 05 2019 | Archive Date Apr 15 2020
St. Martin's Press | All Points Books
Description
North Korea is poised at the crossroads of history. Which direction will its leader take?
Throughout the world, oppressive regimes are being uprooted and replaced by budding democracies, but one exception remains: The People's Republic of North Korea. The Kim family has clung to power for three generations by silencing dissidents, ruling with an iron fist, and holding its neighbors hostage with threats of war. Under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, North Korea has come closer than ever to creating a viable nuclear arsenal, but widespread famine and growing resistance are weakening his regime's stability.
In The Hermit King, Asian geopolitical expert Chung Min Lee tells the story of the rise of the Kim Dynasty and its atrocities, motivations, and diplomatic goals. He also discusses the possible outcomes of its aggressive standoff with the world superpowers.
Kim Jong Un is not a crazed "Rocket Man" or a bumbling despot; he has been groomed since birth to take control of his country and stay in power at all costs. He is now at a fateful crossroads. Will he make good on decades of threats, liberalize North Korea and gain international legitimacy, or watch his regime crumble around him? Lee analyzes the likelihood and consequences of each of these possibilities, cautioning that in the end, a humanitarian crisis in the region is all but unavoidable. The Hermit King is a thoughtful and compelling look at the most complicated diplomatic situation on Earth.
Advance Praise
“A crisp examination of the rise and reign of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un…[Chung Min] Lee’s insightful précis of the Kim clan’s violent history reveals the extent to which the family has relied on executions, forced labor, and torture as tools of political oppression, and his breakdown of the current power structure is vital to any genuine understanding of the regime…an excellent summation of one of the world’s most complex geopolitical flash points.” —Publisher’s Weekly (starred review)
Available Editions
| EDITION | Other Format |
| ISBN | 9781250202826 |
| PRICE | $28.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 304 |
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Taylor G, Reviewer
This book was a great overview of the Kim dynasty, gave insight into Kim Jong-Un, and explained the relationship between North Korea, South Korea, China, Russia, & US. Most North Korea books try to explain the 'weirdness' culture like kids dancing and singing, but this book is not that as it is a more historical picture of how North Korea became what it is today.
Check this out if you're interested about North Korea as geopolitical force.
Lily H, Reviewer
This is an excellent, in-depth look at a frightening family that goes back years. North Korea should be counted as one of the United States most dangerous regimes.
Lisa F, Reviewer
Thank you to St Martin's Press and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was the first book that I have read about the political scene in North Korea and their relationship with the surrounding countries and the USA. I found this to be a very interesting book covering both life in North Korea and that of the ruling class. Great for anyone wanting to learn more about that region of the world.
I was interested enough to look up some different perspectives regarding this area.
Daisy B, Reviewer
The writer, a political scientist, provides a detailed account of the North Korean leader, as well as the history of this troubled nation. The Hermit King looks at living conditions for its citizens, the influences of other nations such as Russia and China and the progress that is potentially being made for diplomatic relations with the U.S. The book is incredibly detailed and a must read for anyone who is interested in world history and the man who controls his citizens with an iron fist.
Reviewer 173301
Chung Min Lee provides an insightful look into the secret North Korea and its ruler. Excellent research and worth the read!
Abby S, Reviewer
An eye opening frightening look at North Korea .A horribly dangerous family ruling bringing danger to the world.I learned so much and found the book very interesting.
Christine T, Reviewer
A fascinating insight into a dad and frightening regime. I feel so sorry for the people of North Korea. Ching Min Lee has an in-depth knowledge and manages to combine the academic with the social in an excellent manner. Well worth reading.
Thank you Chung Mai Lee, Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book and give my unbiased opinion..
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