What One Photo Tells Us About North Korea's Nuclear Program

Clues from a single propaganda photo reveal details about North Korea’s expanding weapons programs and internal politics. Notice what’s absent: military uniforms at an event to unveil a new military weapon. In a country where propaganda sets reality, and the political hierarchy can be life or death, such choices matter; analysts, tracks appearances by North Korean officials... here are  civilian officials and two key military leaders: the head of the nuclear program and the head of missile forces, both in civilian clothing.That sends a clear message: Mr. Kim is asserting that he runs the nuclear weapons program personally, cutting out the usual chain of command. “This is not rule by the military anymore. This is rule by one man! Even a glimpse of the intercontinental missile in the background reveals important information." READ...