The Intelligence from The Economist Strong arms: North Korea’s pandemic era weapons program
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Aug 1, 2023 
In this discussion, Andrew Knox, careers correspondent at The Economist, and data journalist Marie Seger dive into North Korea's pandemic-era weapon strategies. They reveal how the regime's isolation has intensified under Kim Jong Un and the alarming rise in malnutrition among citizens. Additionally, Seger highlights innovations in dairy production through cowless cheese using precision fermentation, promising a sustainable future amid global challenges like the recent rice export ban affecting developing nations.
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North Korea's Pandemic Isolation
- North Korea's leader, Kim Jong-un, has further tightened the country's borders during the pandemic.
- This isolation has allowed him to enhance control and advance weapons programs, benefiting from global distractions.
Impact on Ordinary North Koreans
- Despite already extreme control, the pandemic enabled Kim Jong-un to further restrict unapproved market activities and consolidate power.
- This increased control negatively impacted ordinary North Koreans, with reports of harsh punishments and rising malnutrition.
North Korea's Nuclear Advancement
- North Korea's nuclear arsenal has grown larger and more diverse, with new missile types and launch methods.
- They possess enough material for an estimated 20 to 116 weapons, and continue developing more advanced missiles like the Hwasong-18.