Description: North Korean dictator Kim Jong Il’s death leaves questions about the future of the country and the state of affairs in the Far East.

Source: Anonymous, “North Korea’s Kim Jong Il Dies at 69,” USA Today

Date: December 19, 2011

Article Link: http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/story/2011-12-18/north-korea-leader-dies/52058036/1

Questions for discussion:

1. The video shows various scenes from Kim Jong Il’s nearly two decades in power. What are your general perceptions of his leadership? Was he an effective leader?
2. From what bases of power did Kim operate?
3. How would you characterize Kim’s leadership style?