How We Got Here

Kim Jong-un consolidates power, with initial reports focusing on domestic affairs, economic growth, and cultural glimpses, alongside persistent humanitarian concerns.

International attention shifts to the detention of a US citizen and the mysterious purge of a high-ranking official, highlighting human rights concerns and diplomatic tensions.

Despite initial talks of de-escalation and rare inter-Korean visits, border skirmishes and questions about Kim Jong-un's whereabouts underscore the fragile peace.

North Korea faces internal challenges with a mysterious hotel fire and severe drought, drawing attention to its domestic vulnerabilities.

North Korea stages a large military parade and allows rare glimpses into its society, projecting an image of stability and national pride amidst ongoing family reunions.

Following the assassination of Kim Jong-nam, North Korea conducts multiple ballistic missile tests, prompting increased international concern, US missile defense deployment, and talk of military options.

Tensions reach a fever pitch as North Korea threatens a missile strike on Guam, leading to strong rhetoric from President Trump and international calls for de-escalation.