China, North Korea: Preparing for Life After Kim

North Korean media have reported several recent public appearances by Kim Jong Il, apparently in an attempt to belie rumors that Kim was incapacitated by a stroke earlier this year. U.S., Chinese and South Korean analysts all have agreed that Kim is likely still in charge of North Korea. Nevertheless, his stroke has triggered reviews of contingency plans should there be instability surrounding a leadership transition in North Korea. And while others are planning, China has begun moving.