Amid continuing famine in North Korea, the government there recently asked
South Korea to resume shipments of much needed fertilizer. South Korea had agreed
to ship North Korea up to 200,000 tons of free fertilizer as part of an agreement
to hold talks in Beijing, China, about plans for uniting families separated
by the 1950-53 Korean war. South Korea shipped an initial 100,000 tons but held
up the remaining shipment after North Korea refused to discuss the family reunion
issue in Beijing.
Meanwhile, refugees continue to cross the border from North Korea into China
fleeing the famine — an estimated 100,000 North Koreans have made the trip
over the border in recent years. The refugees tell stories of hunger and in
a few cases cannibalism that confirm the grim situation inside North Korea.
The Economist cited one refugee as estimating that a kilogram of rice was selling
for double the average monthly wage on the black market.
Of course while its people starve, North Korea is busy improving its military
capacity. Sometime in August North Korea is expected to test fire a long range
missile capable of hitting targets as far away as Japan.
Sources:
Echoes from hermit kingdom. The Economist, May 22, 1999.
North Korea, amid growing famine, asks for more fertilizer from South. Associated
Press, July 9, 1999.
North Korea famine lessens, but millions reported still at risk. CNN, August
10, 1999.