Gloomy, Gloomier and Plain Scary

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Below is part of a story from the Financial Times. North Korea has disappeared from the headlines somewhat, what with all the attention paid to the world financial (soon to be economic) crisis. But it’s still there in all its pesky, endlessly-collapsing, quasi-nuclear-armed glory and Beijing is still very concerned, as the article attests. For those of a pessimistic disposition, imagine the consequences on the economy under the current conditions of a serious outbreak of trouble that lead to millions of starving refugees flooding into north east China. How would the stock markets react to that? (If you really want to be apocalyptic, throw in Israel finally losing patience –presumably feeling justified after it’s seemingly successful action to quash Syria’s nascent nuclear program– with Iran and launching a bombing raid.) 

China increases troops on North Korea border

By Demetri Sevastopulo in Washington and Song Jung-a in Seoul

Published: November 13 2008 00:25 | Last updated: November 13 2008 00:25

US officials believe, however, that one recent photograph of Mr. Kim – purportedly watching a football match from the stands of a stadium – appears authentic. But they say the fact that Mr Kim is sitting, with his left arm dangling, reinforces the conclusion that he is paralysed and having difficulty walking. The US believes North Korea would release video footage of Mr Kim to eliminate speculation about his health if that were possible.

The Chinese military has boosted troop numbers along the border with North Korea since September amid mounting concerns about the health of Kim Jong-il, the North Korean leader, according to US officials.

Beijing has declined to discuss contingency plans with Washington, but the US officials said the Peoples’ Liberation Army has stationed more soldiers on the border to prepare for any possible influx of refugees due to instability, or regime change, in North Korea.

US and South Korean intelligence agencies believe Mr Kim suffered a stroke in August that has left him paralysed on his left side, possibly severely enough to prevent him from walking. While the US believes Mr Kim remains in control for now, there are growing concerns about how long he can hold on to power if paralysed.

One official cautioned that the increase in Chinese troops was not “dramatic”, but he said China was also constructing more fences and installations at key border outposts. Wang Baodong, the Chinese embassy spokesman in Washington, said he was unaware of any increased deployments.