korean unification studies

Until all the details are released, it is very difficult to assess the value of the Summit. But, details mean nothing when we look at the all important tabloid questions:

• Why did Kim invite Roh to stay another day? Apparently, Kim Jong-Il requested that they have a long lunch and perhaps let the talks extend for another day. After, Roh stated that he would ask his security and protocol officers, Kim questioned his authority. Why did he do this? Was he using North Korean negotiating tactics to get the upper hand? Was he really tired and sick? Did he really want to talk for longer?
• Where has Kim Jong-Il’s wife or partner been? Despite the presence of wives accompanying Kim Dae-Jung and Roh Moo-Hyun, Kim Jong-Il has never allowed his wife or partner to play a role in state affairs. Is this because of security? Is it because he fears that this may affect his succession plans?
• Is Kim Jong-Il really sick? He walked haltingly, didn’t move his left arm often and had a distinctly lower left side of the mouth, failed to smile and hug Roh when greeting him, made efforts to joke about his health, and wanted an afternoon of rest on Wednesday. It is thought he suffers from diabetes, hypertension and kidney problems. Is he now really sick? Was he pumped up on pain killers during the Summit?
• Where did Kim Jong-Il’s bodyguards get their new ‘professional’ security attire from? Kim’s bodyguards were seen wearing tailor made suits, discrete earpieces, and generally sporting a professional demeanor that was quite simply impressive.

Any answers before I receive them from the Japanese tabloids are very welcome!