North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has been absent from public view since September 3, raising speculation about his health and political status. The unusual behavior of senior North Korean officials during a visit to South Korea and the lack of typical praise for Kim suggest significant political changes. Some experts believe the Organization and Guidance Department of the Korean Workers Party may have sidelined Kim due to internal and external pressures, including financial struggles and the need for aid. The article explores the possibility of a silent coup and the implications for North Korea's future.

The article discusses the annual joint military exercises between the US and South Korea and North Korea's reaction to them. While the North Korean regime issues strong statements and puts its military on high alert, ordinary North Koreans are more concerned about the welfare of their family members in the military. The exercises are seen as a tedious and stressful time for soldiers rather than a genuine threat of invasion. The article also highlights the regime's paranoia and isolation, contrasting it with the more pragmatic views of ordinary citizens.

The article discusses the annual joint military exercises conducted by the US and South Korea and their impact on North Korea. While the North Korean regime views these exercises as a potential threat and responds with heightened military alertness and missile tests, ordinary North Koreans are more concerned about the welfare of their family members in the military. The article provides insights from John Everard, a former British Ambassador to North Korea, who shares his observations and experiences during his tenure. The piece highlights the difference in perceptions between the regime and the general populace, emphasizing the routine hardships faced by North Korean soldiers during these exercises.

North Korea is described as a tinderbox, a state barely managing due to economic weaknesses or political stresses. Such states are susceptible to unforeseen events that could dramatically topple their political structures, leading to sudden instability or chaos.

U.S. and South Korean authorities have indicated that North Korea could be close to conducting its seventh nuclear test, the first since 2017. Evidence suggests restoration of tunnels at the Punggye-ri test site and testing of a detonation device. South Korean foreign minister Park Jin mentioned that North Korea has finished preparations for a nuclear test, pending a political decision.

North Korea conducted missile tests in January that violated U.N. Security Council resolutions, but the Council has not responded with further sanctions or condemnation. China and Russia, both holding veto power, oppose additional sanctions on Pyongyang and suggest rolling back existing ones. There is also a noticeable decline in the willingness of other UNSC members to impose sanctions on North Korea for its illegal activities.

The withdrawal of Swedish diplomats from Pyongyang has left the compound shared by the German, British, and Swedish embassies empty. Three of the seven Western European embassies in Pyongyang, along with the French cultural office, have been temporarily vacated due to North Korea's strict COVID-19 movement restrictions.

Kim Jong Un has proven himself to be a ruthless and effective leader, having replaced senior officials, conducted missile tests, and eliminated potential rivals. His strategic acumen was on display during the summit with Donald Trump, where he secured a meeting without significant concessions and appeared to outmaneuver the US President. Kim's public persona contrasts with his father's, as he engages in speeches and public appearances. The summit in Singapore marked a turning point for Kim, establishing him as a central figure on the world stage and dispelling any previous notions of him being a figure of ridicule.