Lena Shipper

Lena Shipper, the Seoul bureau chief for The Economist, dives into North Korea's alarming food crisis marked by severe shortages due to pandemic policies and crop failures. She discusses the regime’s rare acknowledgment of its struggles and the implications for both citizens and international relations. The conversation also touches on the challenge of securing humanitarian aid amidst ongoing sanctions and domestic control. Additionally, the rise of conspiracy theories in America, particularly among religious communities, adds an intriguing twist to cultural dynamics.

Mark Wilson, The Economist’s Caribbean correspondent, provides a deep dive into the political climate of Jamaica's upcoming election amidst a backdrop of pandemics and hurricane threats. He discusses the leadership styles and economic challenges, particularly in tourism. Lena Shipper, North Korea bureau chief, shares insights on the unprecedented admission of the North Korean leadership regarding their economic failures and the looming humanitarian crisis, echoing past famines, while also commenting on the curious phenomenon of obscure commemorative stamps from Africa.

Mark Wilson, a Caribbean political analyst, joins Lena Shipper, The Economist's North Korea bureau chief, and Adrian Blomfield, an East Africa correspondent. They discuss Jamaica's looming election amidst a tourism crisis and the challenges from hurricanes and COVID-19. Shipper highlights North Korea's admission of dire economic struggles, echoing past famines. Blomfield dives into the quirky world of obscure commemorative stamps, revealing insights into countries like Sierra Leone and their unusual philatelic practices.