Background Information
North Korea, or the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), is a nation that is largely closed off to the rest of the world. It is ruled by the ‘Great Leader’ Kim Jong Un, and governed by a structure of government that is highly autocratic and militarily driven. The parts of government in North Korea can be categorised under two distinct headings: the Communist Party of Korea and the Executive, and Legislative, Assemblies.
Communist Party of Korea
The Communist Party of Korea (CKPK) is North Korea’s de facto ruling party and holds the overwhelming majority of power within the country. It has an extensive apparatus with a strict hierarchy, a plethora of honorary positions, and several militias which are answerable to the leader. The core of the CKPK is the Central Committee, which is comprised of 100–200 members and is led by the General Secretary. Below this is a Politburo, a Secretariat and several Central Commissions.
Executive Assembly
The Executive Assembly is the highest governing body in North Korea, and is led by Kim Jong Un. It is responsible for the day-to-day running of the country and is made up of senior Ministers and officials who are appointed by the leader. They are responsible for providing advice on policy matters and guaranteeing the implementation of presidential orders.
Legislative Assembly
The Legislative Assembly is the primary legislative body of North Korea. It is made up of approximately 360 deputies who are elected every five years by citizens. Their role is to debate and approve laws and policies, investigate matters, and provide oversight of the leadership.
Central Court of Justice
The Central Court of Justice is the highest court in North Korea, and is charged with interpreting and upholding the law. It is made up of 15-20 justices appointed by the leader, and is based on civil law systems. The court has the authority to hear case petitions, issue rulings, and receive appeals from the lower courts.
Local Government
Local government in North Korea has a three-tiered structure: districts, counties and local councils. Districts are headed by chairmen who are appointed by the leader, while counties are headed by secretaries who are elected by citizens. Local councils are also elected by citizens, and they oversee local projects and coordinate activities within their jurisdictions.
Security And Surveillance
North Korea has a highly militarised police force and security apparatus, which is currently estimated to be comprised of about 5 million personnel. The primary function of this apparatus is to maintain control over North Korean citizens and monitor compliance with the government’s policies. They are responsible for enforcing laws, curbing dissent, and ensuring loyalty to the leader.
Foreign Relations
North Korea’s foreign relations are largely dictated by its relations with China, the country’s only major ally. China provides economic and diplomatic support to North Korea, and has aided the country in navigating international affairs and securing aid from other countries. In addition, North Korea has strong ties with Russia, and has also sought to strengthen relationships with its other neighbours, such as South Korea, Japan, and Mongolia.
International Trade
North Korea’s economy is largely reliant on international trade. Its primary exports include coal, metals, textiles, and agricultural products, while its imports include oil and military equipment. North Korea has sought to diversify its trading partners in recent years, and has entered into trade agreements with countries including China, Russia, and South Korea.
Domestic Economy
North Korea’s economy has declined significantly in recent years, as the country’s hard-line stance on international trade has led to a decrease in exports. Domestic production and consumption are hindered by the government’s stringent restrictions on imports and foreign investment, and as a result, most North Koreans live in poverty. The country faces chronic shortages of basic goods, and citizens rely heavily on resources supplied by international aid organisations.
Education And Outreach
North Korea has a highly regulated and state-controlled education system, in which the curriculum is heavily based on the ideology of the leader and the CKPK. Education is compulsory for all North Korean citizens up to the age of 18, and the curricula is aimed at instilling loyalty to the leader and respect for the CKPK. Additionally, North Korea promotes its foreign policy objectives through international outreach programs, including visits to other countries, hosting international cultural and sporting events, and establishing diplomatic relations with other countries.
Diplomatic Relations
North Korea is highly isolated from the international community, and has only established diplomatic relations with a few countries. It currently has embassies in more than 30 countries, including China, Russia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Additionally, North Korea is a member of a few regional organisations, such as the United Nations, and has a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
Media
North Korea’s media is tightly controlled by the government, and most sources of news and information are state-run and heavily censored. The primary sources of news are newspapers, radio and television, which are all heavily monitored and regulated by government authorities. Censorship extends to foreign media outlets, and citizens are unable to access information from outside of the country.
Culture And Religious Practice
North Korea has highly regulated culture and religious practices. Culture and arts are heavily censored and based around themes of loyalty to the leader and the CKPK. Religious practice is illegal, except for approved ceremonies conducted by approved religious organisations. In general, North Koreans are discouraged from engaging in any form of independent cultural or religious expression.
Conclusion
The parts of government in North Korea are highly structured and tightly regulated. The primary power is held by the CKPK and the leader, and the other parts of government are subordinate to them. In addition, North Korea has a highly militarised police force and surveillance apparatus, and has a highly regulated media and education system. The country’s foreign relations and economy are largely reliant on its close relationship with China, and citizens are discouraged from engaging in independent cultural and religious practices.
