The question you have to ask is

[lima_pcp]

what do Kim Jeong-il and the ruling class in the DPRK benefit from peace and regular relations with the world, and normalcy in general?

Comments

same as saudi arabia or any other dictatorship we trade with

[doc_neuro]

$$$$$$

Re: same as saudi arabia or any other dictatorship we trade with

[lima_pcp]

But if I'm Kim, I already have a substatial personal fortune. Allowing more money and trade into the country empowers others, and lessens dependence on me.

Re: same as saudi arabia or any other dictatorship we trade with

[doc_neuro]

ah but it keeps the upstarts who would otherwise consider a coup happy.

Re: same as saudi arabia or any other dictatorship we trade with

[lima_pcp]

Who's going to consider a coup? You can't just step into the shoes of a man-god.