Privileged but Powerless: How North Korean Elite Grievances Reveal the Regime's Greatest Weakness

Privileged but Powerless: How North Korean Elite Grievances Reveal the Regime's Greatest Weakness

Author: The Korea Society May 8, 2026 Duration: 45:14

May 7, 2026 - Join us for a discussion with Dr. Jieun Baek, author of "Privileged but Powerless: How North Korean Elite Grievances Reveal the Regime's Greatest Weakness." In conversation with policy director Jonathan Corrado, Baek reveals a world of forbidden information, simmering resentment, and survival-driven masks, based on hundreds of hours of interviews with high-level escapees. Baek argues that this performative loyalty, born of fear and a desire to survive, obscures a critical vulnerability within the regime's core. In other words: the officials who seem most invested in preserving North Korea's status quo may become its most dangerous disruptors, not for ideological reasons but because of simmering resentment and vanishing alternatives.

This program is made possible by the generous support of the Kim Koo Foundation.

The book is available for purchase here

For more information, please visit the link below:
https://www.koreasociety.org/policy-and-corporate-programs/2146-privileged-powerless


Tune in to The Korea Society for a series of conversations that go beyond the headlines, exploring the dynamic relationship between the United States and Korea. This podcast, presented by the nonprofit organization of the same name, serves as an auditory forum where experts, policymakers, artists, and thinkers from both nations share their insights. You’ll hear discussions that span current events, historical context, cultural exchanges, and policy challenges, all aimed at fostering a deeper mutual understanding. Each episode feels like attending a thoughtful lecture or an intimate roundtable, providing nuance to complex topics that often get simplified in daily news cycles. The natural flow of dialogue in this podcast makes intricate subjects in politics, business, and the arts accessible and engaging. By focusing on genuine conversation rather than soundbites, these recordings build a bridge across the Pacific, offering listeners a reliable source for education and informed perspective. It’s an essential listen for anyone curious about the evolving ties, shared histories, and future collaborations between these two countries. The Korea Society organization ensures the content remains nonpartisan and dedicated to its mission, making each episode a trustworthy deep dive into the issues that shape this vital international partnership.
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