North Korea is stepping up diplomatic efforts to induce more assistance and investment critical to rejuvenating its antiquated economy and underpinning the new leadership’s power base. International sanctions against its missile and nuclear programs have stalled foreign aid and derailed cross-border economic cooperation. In recent months, however, positive signs have been detected in the North from Kim Jong-un’s recent public appearances and economic guidelines. Optimists say the moves reflect h

North Korea’s Jang Song-thaek has enjoyed much international attention since he became the lynchpin of national leader Kim Jong-un’s inner circle following the death of Kim Jong-il in December.The fledgling ruler’s powerful uncle is now in China to attract economic aid to shore up the North’s debilitated economy. The scale of his entourage and the treatment he receives in Beijing speak volumes of how much clout he wields in the reclusive state.His trajectory of success began in the early 1970s w

UNGOK, North Korea (AP) ― Tears rolled down Ri Hyang Ran’s cheeks as she recalled her terror the night floods engulfed her farming-and-mining hamlet northeast of North Korea’s capital, Pyongyang.As the rain pounded down, town officials went door to door hustling residents out of their homes in the middle of the night. Still in her pajamas, Ri said she only had time to grab two things: her portraits of North Korea’s late leaders Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il.Huddling with her neighbors in the mount

Jang’s visit promises faster development of joint industrial zones, greater cooperation in technology, agriculture, infrastructureNorth Korea and China are furthering their ever-growing economic ties as the impoverished country tries to elicit capital needed to fix its crumbling economy and rebuild industries.The two allies reached an agreement on Tuesday to stimulate the sluggish development of joint industrial zones in the North and boost cooperation in technology, agriculture, infrastructure

Amid deepening international isolation, North Korea is beefing up economic cooperation with China through trade, investment and joint industrial projects, which are expected to top the agenda for Jang Song-thaek, vice chairman of the North’s powerful National Defense Commission, who is visiting China this week.The two countries have joined forces to cultivate an industrial belt along their border, which entails free economic zones in the Rajin-Seonbong and Hwanggeumpyeong-Wihwa Islands areas. Un