As Kim Jong-il's birthday (Feb.16) approaches, North Korea has stepped up its propaganda in
praise of its "Dear Leader". [Paektu Secret Camp Expedition], [Paektu Athletic Meet], and
[Ministry of Defense's Declaration of praise for Kim Jong-il] are some of the events currently
being planned.
North Korea lambasted the [ROK-US RSOI Joint Military Exercise] as 'belligerent maneuvers
for the invasion of the north'. But they also expressed their intentions for high-level talks on
the condition of the abolition of the ROK's National Security Law and cessation of joint military
exercises.
North Korea dismissed rumors of a 'crisis' on the Korean peninsula this March as 'American
and Japanese pressures for concessions', and added that it will be met by 'swift measures
for self-defense'.
Weekly on North Korea (99. 2. 1 - 2. 7)
