Routledge Handbook of Contemporary North Korea

The Routledge Handbook of Contemporary North Korea provides a comprehensive overview of modern North Korea, covering politics, economy, culture, society, and foreign relations. It offers accurate analysis and insights into the country's transition and is divided into five sections, reflecting emerging areas of debate and research. The handbook is a valuable resource for students and scholars of Northeast Asian studies, modern Korean history, and comparative politics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Routledge Handbook of Contemporary North Korea is a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of modern North Korea, providing a historical context and examining its politics, economy, culture, society, and foreign relations. Spanning a period of significant transition, this volume offers accurate analysis and insights from both historical and institutional perspectives.

Comprising nineteen chapters, the handbook reflects the growth in North Korean studies since the 1990s, coinciding with the maturation of the field in South Korea and increased access to North Korean sources. The volume is organized into five sections:

The Political Perspective: This section delves into North Korea's political system, leadership, and foreign policy. It explores the country's ideology, institutions, and the challenges it faces in maintaining stability and engaging with the international community.

The North Korean Economy: This section examines North Korea's economic development, challenges, and unique economic policies. It explores the country's resource scarcity, state-led industrialization, and the impact of international sanctions on its economy.

Foreign Relations: This section explores North Korea's relationships with its neighbors, the United States, and other international actors. It examines the country's nuclear program, military tensions, and efforts to establish diplomatic relations.

Society: This section examines North Korean society, culture, and social dynamics. It explores the country's social stratification, education system, and the role of the state in shaping society.

Culture: This section explores North Korea's unique cultural heritage, including literature, art, music, and traditional practices. It examines the country's efforts to promote its culture and the challenges it faces in preserving its traditions in the face of globalization.

The Routledge Handbook of Contemporary North Korea stands out as the first comprehensive anthology of North Korean studies to present a nuanced and accurate understanding of North Korea as a country, rather than a mere perception of it as a threatening rogue state. Contributors from both Korean and non-Korean backgrounds, many of whom work with primary source material, contribute to the handbook's richness and depth. This resource will be invaluable to students and scholars of Northeast Asian studies, modern Korean history and politics, comparative politics, and more broadly.

In conclusion, The Routledge Handbook of Contemporary North Korea is a crucial resource for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of this complex and fascinating country. By providing a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective, it sheds light on North Korea's historical, political, economic, social, and cultural developments, and offers valuable insights into its interactions with the world.

Weight: 556g
Dimension: 173 x 247 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367626068