In this week’s episode of SpyCast, Andrew is joined by Dr. Kim, Hyun Woo, a former DPRK agent. Dr. Kim, who worked for North Korea’s counterintelligence agency for 17 years, has stepped out from the shadows to speak publicly for the first time. His story is one of bravery and courage in the face of danger.
The episode begins by highlighting the 70th Anniversary of the security alliance between the United States and the Republic of Korea. This alliance, formed after the end of the Korean War in 1953, commits both countries to defending each other in the event of an external attack. To commemorate this milestone, the International Spy Museum collaborated with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea on the program.
Dr. Kim’s journey is a remarkable one. He defected to the Republic of Korea in 2014 and has since lived and worked as a Senior Fellow of the Institute for National Security Strategy. His experience and insights provide a rare glimpse into the organizational structure of North Korean intelligence and the training and skills needed to be a DPRK agent.
One of the key takeaways from the interview is the contrast between state conformity and personal convictions. Dr. Kim discusses how he was trained to prioritize loyalty to the state above all else, but his own personal convictions eventually led him to defect. He emphasizes the importance of guaranteeing fundamental rights for all individuals in a unified Korea, regardless of their previous ties to the North Korean regime.
Additionally, Dr. Kim sheds light on North Korean intelligence priorities in the East. He discusses the strategic importance of the region and the efforts made by North Korean agents to gather intelligence and carry out operations. He also provides insights into the challenges faced by defectors and the risks they take in seeking a better life outside of North Korea.
Aside from the interview, the episode also mentions the Around the World Embassy Tour in Washington, D.C. This annual event allows the public to experience the food, dance, history, and cultural traditions of various embassies. The Embassy of the Republic of Korea is recommended as a must-visit destination to celebrate the people and culture of South Korea.
To further delve into the topic of North Korea, the episode provides a list of resources for listeners interested in learning more. This includes books, articles, videos, and primary sources that cover a range of topics such as Kim Jong-Un’s leadership, North Korean defectors, and the power structure of the country.
As a special mention, Dr. Kim’s love for Sherlock Holmes is highlighted, and readers are encouraged to explore the last chronological short story in the series, “His Last Bow.” In this story, Holmes tracks down a German spy during World War I, showcasing the detective’s incredible skills and cunning.
Overall, this episode of SpyCast offers a unique and insightful perspective on North Korean intelligence and the journey of a defector. Dr. Kim’s firsthand account provides valuable information and raises important questions about state conformity and personal convictions. Listeners are encouraged to tune in and explore the resources provided to gain a deeper understanding of this complex subject.