North Korea remains a closed autocracy under the leadership of Kim Jong-un, with highly repressive political controls and a bloodline-based succession system. The government has focused on practical mechanisms of legitimacy while maintaining strict limits on political participation and civil liberties.
Easing border controls supported modest economic recovery. The economy expanded in 2023, driven by rising cross-border trade. External trade was mainly conducted with China. Economic policy prioritizes regional development.
Governance is shaped by expanding ties with Russia and escalating tensions with South Korea. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership treaty with Russia includes mutual security assurances, while inter-Korean relations have deteriorated to their lowest level in recent years.
