Part 7/11:
While Western commentators often assume that effective policy change in North Korea must be mediated through China, the reality is more complex. China possesses significant leverage over Kim Jong-un, primarily because North Korea's survival depends heavily on Chinese support.
Kim Jong-un recognizes that his regime's "insurance policy" relies on Beijing. Historically, China supplies essential resources, such as shells and short-range ballistic missiles, and maintains advisors and logistical support within North Korea. Although Beijing often dismisses or minimizes its role in North Korea's military actions — especially regarding North Korean troops in Ukraine — the evidence suggests a far more intertwined relationship.