News

News and Commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and Published by Riley Murray.

1. Giving Tuesday Recommendations

2. The Beautiful, Dumb Dream of McDonald’s Peace Theory

3. WHO: No evidence virus originated outside China

4. Aides’ Ties to Firms Present Biden With Early Ethics Test

5. Rep. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan reportedly eyed as Biden's CIA director

6. Biden’s US faces uphill battle winning back Asia’s hearts and minds - just look at the Philippines

7. Exclusive: Former CIA station chief Darrell Blocker floated to lead agency under Biden, source says

8. Did a U.S. Navy Admiral Really Visit Taiwan?

9. The inexorable rise of Jake Sullivan

10. China powers up Hualong One, the first Chinese-developed nuclear reactor

11. The Ancient Greeks' Guide to Rejecting Propaganda and Disinformation

12. The Misfits of D-Day and World War II

13. ‘Brothers in Arms’ - An Unforgettable Family Reunion in Afghanistan, and the Meaning of Military Service

1. Giving Tuesday Recommendations

Dear Friends, 

I do not normally do this (except I did this last year and for the last few years now, too) and I certainly do not mean to use my email distribution and news service for solicitation so please forgive me.   I was asked for recommendations of organizations to support so I thought I would share with you the organizations to whom I give.  I support six main causes: The Green Beret Foundation, The Small Wars Journal,  The Committee for Human Rights in North Korea, Spirit of America, the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, and the OSS Society (and I do also contribute to WAMU so I can get my daily dose of NPR as well as well as scholarship funds of various organizations of which I am an alum).  As we near the end of the year and since it is "Giving Tuesday" (on December 1st) and people are making decisions to give to worthy causes I thought I would share this with you.   Please give to your favorite organizations this year (despite the changes in the tax laws which may reduce the incentive for some to give).  If you need a suggestion for giving please consider Spirit of America, The Committee for Human Rights in North Korea, The Green Beret Foundation, the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, the OSS Society, and Small Wars Journal.

I would be remiss if I did not add the great organization to which I now belong, The Foundation for Defense of Democracy (a Washington-based nonpartisan research institute focusing on national security and foreign policy) which is a 501(c) research institute.  It has the best mission for a retired Special Forces soldier (and anyone interested in national security and foreign policy): "FDD conducts in-depth research, produces accurate and timely analyses, identifies illicit activities, and provides policy options – all with the aim of strengthening U.S. national security and reducing or eliminating threats posed by adversaries and enemies of the United States and other free nations."  

The Committee For Human Rights in North Korea:

https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/HRNK

Spirit of America:

https://spiritofamerica.org/donate

Green Beret Foundation:

http://www.greenberetfoundation.org/donate/

Special Operations Warrior Foundation

https://specialops.org/ways-to-give/

OSS Society

https://www.osssociety.org/donate.html

Small Wars Journal:

http://smallwarsjournal.com/content/support

Foundation for Defense of Democracies

https://www.fdd.org/invest/

2. The Beautiful, Dumb Dream of McDonald’s Peace Theory

Foreign Policy · by Paul Musgrave · November 26, 2020

I am surprise the author does not reference Normal Angell and his theory (https://www.researchgate.net/publication/232019717_The_great_illusion_revisited_The_international_theory_of_Norman_Angell/link/5894733392851c54574b689b/download)

3. WHO: No evidence virus originated outside China

www3.nhk.or.jp

4. Aides’ Ties to Firms Present Biden With Early Ethics Test

The New York Times · by Eric Lipton · November 28, 2020

The Fourth Estate is doing its job by beginning to hold the incoming administration accountable.

5. Rep. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan reportedly eyed as Biden's CIA director

foxnews.com · by Brie Stimson

Another one I had not heard about.

6. Biden’s US faces uphill battle winning back Asia’s hearts and minds - just look at the Philippines

https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/opinion/article/3111823/bidens-us-faces-uphill-battle-winning-back-asias-hearts-and-minds - by Lucio Blanco Pitlo III – 29 November 2020

Again, our longest standing treaty ally.  I hope this is a function of the current Philippine administration.

7. Exclusive: Former CIA station chief Darrell Blocker floated to lead agency under Biden, source says

foxnews.com · by Hollie McKay

More speculation.  Another name I had not heard.  Sounds like a pretty cool guy!! Seriously, another accomplished potential nominee.

8. Did a U.S. Navy Admiral Really Visit Taiwan?

The National Interest · by Peter Suciu · November 25, 2020

Enquiring minds would like to know.

9. The inexorable rise of Jake Sullivan

Politico

Since he does not require Senate confirmation, we can say this is our next National Security Advisor. An interesting background.

10. China powers up Hualong One, the first Chinese-developed nuclear reactor

https://www.scmp.com/news/china/society/article/3111828/china-powers-hualong-one-first-chinese-developed-nuclear-reactor

11. The Ancient Greeks' Guide to Rejecting Propaganda and Disinformation

zocalopublicsquare.org · by by ASHA RANGAPPA and JENNIFER MERCIECA | JUNE 7, 2020

We can always turn to philosophy for guidance.  This is from June but is very useful to read now given the huge amount of disinformation we are seeing on a daily basis - and it is only going to grow.  We must be critical thinkers and critical consumers of information.

12. The Misfits of D-Day and World War II

coffeeordie.com · by Matt Fratus · November 27, 2020

Some more unique and great history.  Photos re at the link:  https://coffeeordie.com/misfits-world-war-ii/

13. ‘Brothers in Arms’ - An Unforgettable Family Reunion in Afghanistan, and the Meaning of Military Service

coffeeordie.com · by Nolan Peterson · November 28, 2020

“It is perfectly true, as the philosophers say, that life must be understood backwards. But they forget the other proposition: that it must be lived forwards.”

- This observation was made in 1843 by the Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard in a journal entry.

"Operatives are selected for their intelligence, courage, and natural resourcefulness in dealing with resistance groups."

- OSS Field Manual (1944)

“The badge of rank which an officer wears on his coat is really a symbol of servitude to his men.”

- General George S. Patton

News and Commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and Published by Riley Murray.

1. ARSOF in the Korean War

2. Infection tally below 500 for first time in 4 days; authorities mull tougher measures

3. S. Korea keeps capital area under Level 2 social distancing, raises other areas to Level 1.5

4. Army artillery school reports 17 COVID-19 infections

5. N. Korea steps up coronavirus quarantine in coastal areas: paper

6. The Implausibility of the ‘Vietnam Model’ for North Korea: The Security Factor

7. North Korean hackers tried to disrupt vaccine in South, says spy agency

8. North Korea authorised cyber gang to steal Britain's Covid vaccine secrets, sources say

9.  China stays arrogant to maintain restrictions on Korean wave content

10. Exclusive: Suspected North Korean hackers targeted COVID vaccine maker AstraZeneca - sources

11. S. Korea to develop big data collection and analysis system for military logistics by 2025

12. North Korea toughens rules of entry to sea to fight coronavirus

13. U.S. lacking focus on partnership between Iran and North Korea regimes

14. N. Korea steps up virus control along inter-Korean border: state media

15. Moon's adviser calls for S. Korea to break away from 'U.S. or China' framework

1. ARSOF in the Korean War

With great regards and respect for the USASOC History office: I just came across this fantastic resource on ARSOF in the Korean War. Anyone who is interested in studying SOF history in Korea will want to begin with this excellent and what I would consider a foundational resource. Articles, research, references, and videos all begin at this single web page.

https://arsof-history.org/arsof_in_korea/index.html?

2. Infection tally below 500 for first time in 4 days; authorities mull tougher measures

en.yna.co.kr · by 김한주 · November 29, 2020

Very slight good news.

3. S. Korea keeps capital area under Level 2 social distancing, raises other areas to Level 1.5

en.yna.co.kr · by 김덕현 · November 29, 2020

4. Army artillery school reports 17 COVID-19 infections

en.yna.co.kr · by 유청모 · November 28, 2020

A relatively minor outbreak in the South Korean military. But we must keep our eye on the north Korean People's Army because an outbreak there will be catastrophic.

5. N. Korea steps up coronavirus quarantine in coastal areas: paper

en.yna.co.kr · by 송상호 · November 28, 2020

I fear the COLID storm is coming to the north.

6. The Implausibility of the ‘Vietnam Model’ for North Korea: The Security Factor

thediplomat.com · November 28, 2020

I think north Korea would love to adopt a "Vietnam model."  Unfortunately, we are all focused on the post 1975 economic "Vietnam Model."  The author is correct that the regime is likely unwilling to adopt that model given the current conditions, to include the regime's assessment of security conditions.

But there is a "Vietnam model" that we overlook but one that the regime is actually pursuing.  Like north Vietnam it would like to broker a peace treaty with the US that would cause the withdrawal of US troops. It would like to see the US become overly focused on domestic issues.  Once troops are fully withdrawn the regime will redouble its efforts to dominate the entire peninsula and if necessary, it will use force to do so because it will believe it has created the conditions to be successful.  it will attack the South, assuming the US has lost the will to come to the aid of the South because there is no longer a US force presence, and seek to unify the peninsula under the Guerrilla Dynasty and Gulag State just as north Vietnam did with the South.  That is the "Vietnam model" the Kim family regime would like to copy.  We need to understand the regime's political warfare strategy as well as its military strategy.  They are mutually supporting.

7. North Korean hackers tried to disrupt vaccine in South, says spy agency

The Guardian · by Justin McCurry · November 27, 2020

Again, we should not be surprised by the regime's use of its all purpose sword.

8. North Korea authorised cyber gang to steal Britain's Covid vaccine secrets, sources say

The Telegraph · by Robert Mendick

The regime's all purpose sword is a global threat.

9. China stays arrogant to maintain restrictions on Korean wave content

donga.com

Buried lede:  The THAAD controversy is not over.  

But I wish the Moon administration would listen to the DONGA Ilbo editorial board.

10. Exclusive: Suspected North Korean hackers targeted COVID vaccine maker AstraZeneca - sources

Reuters · by Jack Stubbs · November 27, 2020

Tough days for AstraZeneca.

11. S. Korea to develop big data collection and analysis system for military logistics by 2025

en.yna.co.kr · by 오석민 · November 29, 2020

I would hope they could get this done sooner rather than later, especially given the advanced technological capabilities of South Korea.

12. North Korea toughens rules of entry to sea to fight coronavirus

Al Jazeera English

I would hate to be considered an ‘uncivilised and unhygienic element.’

13. U.S. lacking focus on partnership between Iran and North Korea regimes

washingtontimes.com 

Follow the work of Dr. Bruce Becthol on north Korean proliferation.  He has often counseled me saying if you see it in north Korea you will eventually see it in Iran.

14. N. Korea steps up virus control along inter-Korean border: state media

en.yna.co.kr · by 이해아 · November 29, 2020

Are they expecting defectors from the South?

But sea garbage?  Is that really a vector for the virus?  Will fish transmit the virus? Are they laying the groundwork to accuse the South of biological attack?

15. Moon's adviser calls for S. Korea to break away from 'U.S. or China' framework

m-en.yna.co.kr · by 김승연 · November 27, 2020

Moon Chung-in continues to demonstrate his unhelpfulness to the ROK/US alliance.  The Moon administration would do well to break away from him.

“It is perfectly true, as the philosophers say, that life must be understood backwards. But they forget the other proposition: that it must be lived forwards.”

- This observation was made in 1843 by the Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard in a journal entry.

"Operatives are selected for their intelligence, courage, and natural resourcefulness in dealing with resistance groups."

- OSS Field Manual (1944)

“The badge of rank which an officer wears on his coat is really a symbol of servitude to his men.”

- General George S. Patton

News and Commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and Published by Riley Murray.

1. Joe Biden considers retired general Lloyd Austin for Pentagon chief

2. Acting Defense secretary makes surprise trip to Somalia

3. Opinion | U.S.-made technologies are aiding China’s surveillance of Uighurs. How should Washington respond?

4. Biden’s NATO Amity Sparks Debate Among European Allies

5. Alfred Thayer Mahan: America’s Greatest Public Intellectual

6. Philippines Looking to Reverse Course on Scrapping US Military Pact

7. Debt Will Determine How America Engages With The Rest Of The World

8. China rises as world's data superpower as internet fractures

9. As China’s power waxes, the West’s study of it is waning

10. Krebs says allegations of foreign interference in 2020 election 'farcical'

11. Covid Was Hiding Among Colds and Flus

12. Japan to back Aegis on ships as missile interceptors - Kyodo

13. Is China Seeking A Secretive, Permanent Presence in America’s Computers?

14. The Chinese Communist Party turns 100

15. Asia’s Future Beyond U.S.-China Competition - The Day After

16. The Trump administration is right- on civilian oversight of special operations

17. Trump Gave W.H.O. a List of Demands. Hours Later, He Walked Away.

18. A call for late justice for Col. Larry Franklin | Opinion

19. Building a Red Teamer's Library - From the Green Notebook

20. 4 Badass Operators You Should Know More About

1. Joe Biden considers retired general Lloyd Austin for Pentagon chief

Axios · by Hans Nichols, Jonathan Swan

I would be very surprised if he chose a former GOFO, especially one who needed a waiver.  Not a good move at this time in my opinion.

2. Acting Defense secretary makes surprise trip to Somalia

The Hill · by Celine Castronuovo · November 27, 2020

3. Opinion | U.S.-made technologies are aiding China’s surveillance of Uighurs. How should Washington respond?

The Washington Post · by Editorial Board · November 26, 2020

Buried Lede? So does this mean that our surveillance technologies are superior to what the Chinese can develop?

We cannot sacrifice our values.  If our technology is being used to deny human rights and oppress people, we must take the appropriate action.

4. Biden’s NATO Amity Sparks Debate Among European Allies

WSJ · by James Marson

There is going to be a "new" NATO as a result of President Trump's policies and actions. This is an opportunity to move forward and not backward. In fact, I think when all is said and done President Trump's legacy may be as the great disruptor who provided the catalyst for change and potential advancement in foreign policy and national security. Just like building new muscle - first you have to exercise to failure and break down the muscle to build it back up better.  The question is, will a Biden administration capitalize on it?

5. Alfred Thayer Mahan: America’s Greatest Public Intellectual

realcleardefense.com · by Francis P. Sempa

Food for thought.

Excerpt: Mahan began his career as a public intellectual just as the United States was becoming an overseas power - indeed, Mahan soon became one of our nation’s greatest advocates for overseas expansion. Mahan’s study of history, especially Theodore Mommsen’s multi-volume History of Rome, convinced him that “sea power” in its broadest sense - naval and commercial - was the key to national greatness. He was a great admirer of the British Empire and believed that the United States was destined to supplant Britain as the world’s greatest sea power.

6. Philippines Looking to Reverse Course on Scrapping US Military Pact

voanews.com · by Ralph Jennings – 27 November 2020

Our oldest treaty ally.

7. Debt Will Determine How America Engages With The Rest Of The World

Forbes · by Mike O'Sullivan · November 27, 2020

Which former CJCS said the debt was our biggest national security threat? Adm Mullin? And who said now that we have no more money we will have to start thinking?

8. China rises as world's data superpower as internet fractures

asia.nikkei.com – by Toru Tsunashima

I have heard this repeated many times by futurists and cyber experts are security conferences: "he who controls the data...."

9. As China’s power waxes, the West’s study of it is waning

The Economist – 28 November 2020

Come on.  Haven't we all read Sun Tzu enough? “If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.”  The subtitle asks the key question.

10. Krebs says allegations of foreign interference in 2020 election 'farcical'

The Hill · by Morgan Gstalter · November 27, 2020

I do not know why we cannot trust Krebs? (I do).  He must be one of the smartest people on this issue with the most access to information about the entire electoral process from a data/cyber perspective.  Why do we not believe him and his objective, expert assessment?

11. Covid Was Hiding Among Colds and Flus

WSJ · by Holman W. Jenkins, Jr.

Interesting analysis.

As an aside we have upped our daily intake of Vitamin D, Zinc, and Vitamin C as well as follow the best practices of public health protocols.

But here is the key point.  It is all of our responsibility to deal with this crisis (though there are many who do not believe there is a crisis)

Excerpt: Though Donald Trump and the media enjoy obsessing about each other, a Washington fix was never in the cards beyond mobilizing supplies and expediting a vaccine. The job was always going to fall on the shoulders of 330 million Americans, with guidance from local leaders, to adapt to oscillating waves in their communities.

12.  Japan to back Aegis on ships as missile interceptors - Kyodo

theedgemarkets.com · November 28, 2020

13. Is China Seeking A Secretive, Permanent Presence in America’s Computers?

The National Interest · by Michael G. McLaughlin, William J. Holstein · November 27, 2020

I think we all know the answer to the title question despite what skeptics, apologists, and panda huggers might think.

14. The Chinese Communist Party turns 100

The Economist · by James Miles – 17 November 2020

But the DPRK has existed longer than the PRC. Just saying. :-) (by one year)

15. Asia’s Future Beyond U.S.-China Competition - The Day Aft

carnegieendowment.org · by Evan A. Feigenbaum

I think the Asian countries will say there is more to Asia than the PRC and the US.  But one basic question for all us is "rule of law" or "rule by law?"

16. The Trump administration is right- on civilian oversight of special operations

atlanticcouncil.org · November 18, 2020

I missed this one when it was published last week.  It is interesting to note the NDAA 2017 was signed into law by President Obama.  The Trump Administration is finally implementing something that was established in the last administration. I hope the Biden administration will continue to build on the Acting SECDEF's initiative. There is still a lot of work to be done to get civilian oversight and advocacy rights.

17. Trump Gave W.H.O. a List of Demands. Hours Later, He Walked Away.

The New York Times · by Matt Apuzzo · November 27, 2020

More on our great disruptor.  Some very good demands.  The lesson here is that international organizations are a battlespace in which China wants to dominate. Are we going to effectively compete in this space for cede to China?

18.  A call for late justice for Col. Larry Franklin | Opinion

Newsweek · by Caroline Glick · November 27, 2020

What a tragic story (at least from reading this account - I am sure there are some who think there is another side to the story).  But if this is accurate this is a tragic miscarriage of justice.  That said, I have never ever taken classified documents home to work on at night and I did not know anyone who did in my 30 years in the Army. But I have known some who have mishandled classified material and they have been held accountable.

19.  Building a Red Teamer's Library - From the Green Notebook

fromthegreennotebook.com · by Joe Byerly · September 26, 2020

I just saw this on social media.  A good list from a good professor. I had the opportunity to work for Mike in his course at Leavenworth.

Unfortunately the Army is doing away with the US Army University of Foreign Military and Cultural Studies which includes among other courses the Red Team Leader' course and the  Special Operations Campaign Artistry Program (SOCAP) course.  You would think given the NDS and the IW annex the Army would want to continue to teach these courses and sustain this program and university.

20.  4 Badass Operators You Should Know More About

coffeeordie.com · by Matt Fratus · November 27, 2020

"A dead soldier who has given his life because of the failure of his leader is a dreadful sight before God.  Like all dead soldiers, he was tired before he died, and undoubtedly dirty, and possibly frightened to his soul and there is on top of all that . . . Never again to see his homeland.  Don’t be the leader who failed to instruct him properly, who failed to lead him well.  Burn the midnight oil, that you may not in later years look at your hands and find his blood still red upon them.'

- James Warner Bellah was a former Army officer who wrote many Western stories and such, to include some of his short stories being turned into movies by John Ford -- like  Fort Apache, She Wore A Yellow Ribbon and Rio Grande.

"A political society does not live to conduct foreign policy; it would be more correct to say that it conducts foreign policy in order to live."

- George Kennan

"Our moral strength is in ourselves, in our patience, in our courage, in our decision and in our resolution."

- William J. Donovan

This piece orginially appeared on USIP.org.

Full Article: https://www.usip.org/publications/2020/11/libya-peace-talks-advance-will-need-local-support

By Nate Wilson

News and Commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and Published by Riley Murray.

1. Coronavirus appears to be hurting North Korea harder than trade sanctions: report

2. Kim Jong Un 'orders multiple executions' amid Covid-19 battle

3. Asia Today: Speed of viral spread causes concern in S. Korea

4. Former USFK commander says S. Korea may lose allies if nuclear-armed

5. Kim Jong Un, North Korea unsure of Joe Biden’s policies, South Korea says

6. Virus tally exceeds 500 for 3rd day; authorities under pressure to toughen social distancing (South Korea)

7. N. Korea-China trade dips 73 pct this year on pandemic impact

8. Kim Jong Un Doesn’t Want to Pick a Fight With Biden for Now, South Korean Lawmakers Say

9. Over 70 pct of S. Koreans support Seoul's role as 'facilitator' in nuclear talks in Biden administration

10. Kim Jong Un Likely to Let His Missiles Do the Talking With Biden

11. N. Korea builds some 2,300 houses in typhoon-hit mining town

12. N. Korea enforces home classes for kids amid COVID-19 concerns

13. Experts: Revisions to Enterprise Act to have little affect on economic recovery

1. Coronavirus appears to be hurting North Korea harder than trade sanctions: report

https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3111752/coronavirus-appears-be-hurting-north-korea-harder-trade - 28 November 2020

But what hurts Koreans in the north the worst is the policy decisions of Kim Jong-un who denies the human rights of Korea in order to remain in power.

And it is not necessarily the coronavirus that is causing the hurt.  It is Kim Jong-un taking advantage of the necessity to defend against the coronavirus to implement draconian population and resource control measures in order to further oppress and control the population.

2. Kim Jong Un 'orders multiple executions' amid Covid-19 battle

au.news.yahoo.com

We see the true nature of the Kim family regime in these reported actions.

3. Asia Today: Speed of viral spread causes concern in S. Korea

SFGATE · November 28, 2020

4. Former USFK commander says S. Korea may lose allies if nuclear-armed

donga.com – by Jae-Dong Yu – 28 November 2020

South Korea should think twice about the pursuit of nuclear weapons.

5. Kim Jong Un, North Korea unsure of Joe Biden’s policies, South Korea says

New York Post · by Steven Nelson · November 27, 2020

I guess the north is not reading Yonhap. They should read President-Elect Biden's Yonhap OpEd from October 30 for some insights.

6. Virus tally exceeds 500 for 3rd day; authorities under pressure to toughen social distancing (South Korea)

en.yna.co.kr · by 남광식 · November 28, 2020

7. N. Korea-China trade dips 73 pct this year on pandemic impact

en.yna.co.kr · by 곽영섭 · November 27, 2020

Policy decisions by the Kim family regime.

8. Kim Jong Un Doesn’t Want to Pick a Fight With Biden for Now, South Korean Lawmakers Say

WSJ · by Andrew Jeong

I would question this assessment as it fits well within the Moon administration's desire and vision.  But is it realistic? While the regime may not want to pick. kinetic fight with the US, we should expect it to continue to conduct its form of political warfare with juche characteristics, blackmail diplomacy, and long con.  Show me the evidence that Kim is changing his strategy and objectives (to include domination of the peninsula under his control).

9. Over 70 pct of S. Koreans support Seoul's role as 'facilitator' in nuclear talks in Biden administration

en.yna.co.kr · by 이원주 · November 27, 2020

This number could be 100%. However, there is only one "vote" that matters.  That is Kim Jong-un's.  As much as the Moon administration and the Korean people in the South would like to serve as a "mediator" it is highly unlikely that it can do so effectively if Kim Jong-un does not embrace the idea.  That said we can expect Kim to try to exploit the idea in some way to support his political warfare strategy.

10. Kim Jong Un Likely to Let His Missiles Do the Talking With Biden

Bloomberg · by Jon Herskovitz · November 26, 2020

Let your fingers do the walking and your missiles to the talking. (Yes, the Yellow Pages analogy does not fit but the rhyme is nice).

But the big questions are if, when, and what type of provocation will Kim conduct to welcome the Biden administration? Before or after inauguration? SRBM, IRBM, SLBM, or ICBM test?  Nuclear test? 

11. N. Korea builds some 2,300 houses in typhoon-hit mining town

en.yna.co.kr · by 고병준 · November 27, 2020

Seems like a relatively impressive statistic but there have been reports of the actual quality being very substandard.  You have to appreciate the rhetoric of the Propaganda and Agitation Department:

"Single-, low- and multi-storied dwelling houses for 2,300 households, public buildings and parks have been successfully built to turn misfortune into blessings in the area," the KCNA said.

"The big change in the area is the bright fruition brought about by the passionate loving care and dedication made by Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un," the KCNA added.

Maybe our bumper sticker offer of "make the right strategic decision and you can have a brighter future" is a message received in some way.  Kim is adopting the concept of the brighter future (though maybe the "bright fruition" is a little off).

12. N. Korea enforces home classes for kids amid COVID-19 concerns

en.yna.co.kr · by 고병준 · November 27, 2020

Remote classes - teachers come to students' homes.  No online classes in the north, at least for the rank and file.

It seems if you add these two together there is no school all year around:

The North had extended winter vacation for students until early June amid the global coronavirus pandemic. The report suggests that the North has extended summer vacation again by delaying the start of autumn semesters.

Note also the report from RFA on the survey for illiteracy among adults which is one of the 2d and 3d order effects of the Arduous march of the great famine of 1994-1996.  https://www.rfa.org/english/news/korea/illiteracy-11252020000636.html. 

We used to speculate that a unified Korean would bring a relatively well educated and disciplined workforce into a United Republic of Korea. This kind of reporting and anecdotal evidence certainly calls such an assumption into question.  Planning for unification must be appropriately adjusted.

13. Experts: Revisions to Enterprise Act to have little affect on economic recovery

dailynk.com · November 27, 2020

Probably because the enterprise act is not focused on economic recovery but on economic and population control.

"A dead soldier who has given his life because of the failure of his leader is a dreadful sight before God.  Like all dead soldiers, he was tired before he died, and undoubtedly dirty, and possibly frightened to his soul and there is on top of all that . . . Never again to see his homeland.  Don’t be the leader who failed to instruct him properly, who failed to lead him well.  Burn the midnight oil, that you may not in later years look at your hands and find his blood still red upon them.'

- James Warner Bellah was a former Army officer who wrote many Western stories and such, to include some of his short stories being turned into movies by John Ford -- like  Fort Apache, She Wore A Yellow Ribbon and Rio Grande.

"A political society does not live to conduct foreign policy; it would be more correct to say that it conducts foreign policy in order to live."

- George Kennan

"Our moral strength is in ourselves, in our patience, in our courage, in our decision and in our resolution."

- William J. Donovan

This piece originally appeared on USIP.org.

Full Article: https://www.usip.org/publications/2020/11/what-will-become-iraqis-al-hol

By Sarhang Hamasaeed

In October, Kurdish authorities announced 24,000 Syrians would be released. But the camp’s Iraqi residents’ future is as uncertain as ever.

The al-Hol camp in northeast Syria—which holds tens of thousands who were living among ISIS before its territorial defeat—has presented the region and international community with a host of thorny challenges. What to do with the camp’s residents has particularly bedeviled the Kurdish authorities who run the camp as well as the governments of countries where residents came from. On October 5, Kurdish authorities said they would release the Syrians in the camp, where conditions have become increasingly unsustainable. But, nearly half of the camps’ 65,000 residents are Iraqis, and their prospect for return remains deeply uncertain. USIP’s Sarhang Hamasaeed discusses the situation facing Iraqis in al-Hol and the challenges ahead if they indeed return.

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Duncan Moore.

1. Langevin supports DOD refocus on civilian oversight

2.  No, the US Agency for Global Media does not compete with US commercial media

3. Tapping Flournoy as SecDef would be a really big deal

4. Why the Quad should focus on a strategy to contain China

5. Judge in Venezuela convicts 6 U.S. oil executives of corruption

6. How to save democracy from technology

7. U.S., Taiwan to push an alternative to China’s belt and road

8. Pompeo: we have 'force posture right' on radical Islamic terror

9. Total Covid-19 cases in U.S. may be eight times higher than reported, scientists estimate

10. Beijing doesn't want the U.S. to form an 'anti-China coalition' in the post-Trump era, consultancy says

11. Biden should revamp Asia-Pacific path, ditch Indo-Pacific idea

12. Climate change, terrorism top list of challenges facing US military

13. ‘Let’s build a digital Silk Road’: Xi Jinping looks to cement China’s ties with Asean

14. Targeting North Atlantic Treaty Organization Article 5: assessing enhanced forward presence as a below war threshold response

15. PH air force unit shows off improved firepower, accuracy at anniversary rite

16. Naval group opens office in Philippines with submarine deal in sight

17. Pope Francis: a crisis reveals what is in our hearts

18. How globalization undermined the case for western values

19. Why did 74 million Americans vote for Trump? This sociologist has the answer

20. Fundraiser gives back to Alice Brock of hit thanksgiving song fame

1. Langevin supports DOD refocus on civilian oversight

Warwick Post · Rob Borkowski · November 25, 2020

We need to remove the personalities and conspiracy theories from the equation and focus on the importance of this action. And Congress, as evidenced by Rep. Langevin, wants this to be sustained.

2. No, the US Agency for Global Media does not compete with US commercial media

MountainRunner.us · Matt Armstrong · November 26, 2020

For all those who criticize USAGM, Voice of America, Radio Free Asia, RFE, RL,  I recommend reading and pondering this important essay from Matt Armstrong.

3. Tapping Flournoy as SecDef Would Be a Really Big Deal

Defense One · Janine Davidson ·November 26, 2020

She is well qualified and respected. I hope the progressive wing of the Democratic party does not derail her nomination. A "natsec black belt?"

4. Why the Quad should focus on a strategy to contain China

National Interest · James Holmes · November 26, 2020

It is important the work done by the Trump administration is carried forward in a Biden administration.

5. Judge in Venezuela convicts 6 U.S. oil executives of corruption

New York Times · The Associated Press · November 26, 2020

Another evil regime that conducts "rule by law" and does not respect the rule of law.

6. How to save democracy from technology

Foreign Affairs · Francis Fukuyama, Barak Richman, & Ashish Goel · November 24, 2020

History has not ended. Democracy still needs defense.

"Middleware?"  A new term for me.

7. U.S., Taiwan to push an alternative to China’s belt and road

Bloomberg · Miaojung Lin · November 27, 2020

8. Pompeo: we have 'force posture right' on radical Islamic terror

News Max · Eric Mack · November 26, 2020

9. Total Covid-19 cases in U.S. may be eight times higher than reported, scientists estimate

Forbes · Siladitya Ray · November 26, 2020

On the other hand, there are many who believe the statistics are inflated to make Americans afraid. Some believe that if someone tests positive for COVID but dies from some other cause, hospitals report them as dying of COVID.

10. Beijing doesn't want the U.S. to form an 'anti-China coalition' in the post-Trump era, consultancy says

CNBC · Abigail Ng · November 27, 2020

We cannot wish away competition with China, but China sure would like us to. And we should remember that alliances are a threat to China.

Here is a link to the consultancy, Control Risks.

11. Biden should revamp Asia-Pacific path, ditch Indo-Pacific idea

Global Times · November 25, 2020

Here it is in the CCP's own words through their own propaganda mouthpiece, the Global Times.

12. Climate change, terrorism top list of challenges facing US military

Military.com · Richard Sisk · November 25, 2020

The IG does not write the strategy or provide intelligence estimates.  But it calls its report "Management Challenges."  It can be downloaded here.

13. ‘Let’s build a digital Silk Road’: Xi Jinping looks to cement China’s ties with ASEAN

South China Morning Post · Laura Zhou · November 27, 2020

And, of course, China would want to be in charge of and control such a digital silk road.

14. Targeting North Atlantic Treaty Organization Article 5: assessing enhanced forward presence as a below war threshold response

Divergent Options · Steve MacBeth · November 25, 2020

15. PH air rorce unit shows off improved firepower, accuracy at anniversary rite

Inquirer.net · Frances Mangosing · November 26, 2020

16. Naval group opens office in Philippines with submarine deal in sight

Naval News · Xavier Vavasseur · November 26, 2020

France and the Philippines.

17. Pope Francis: a crisis reveals what is in our hearts

New York Times · Pope Francis · November 26, 2020

I have seen a lot of hearts revealed during the pandemic. Social media is especially revealing.

I am not Catholic, and I do not agree with every one of the Pope's policies and actions. But this is an example of (religious) leadership. Some other religious leaders, regardless of denomination can learn from the Pope.

18. How globalization undermined the case for western values

American Conservative · Kurt Hofer · November 27, 2020

19. Why did 74 million Americans vote for Trump? This sociologist has the answer

Haaretz · David B. Green · November 27, 2020

Those on both sides of the political spectrum should read and reflect on this article and the analysis of Professor Arlie Hochschild.

20. Fundraiser gives back to Alice Brock of hit thanksgiving song fame

NPR · Andrea Shea · November 26, 2020

For all those who listened to Alice's Restaurant yesterday (I made my daughter listen with me and we compared the politics of the 1960s with today's politics).

Fort those who have not listened to Arlo Guthrie recently here is a link to his epic song. Sit on the Group W bench while you listen to it.

"I think, what has this day brought me, and what have I given it?"

- Henry Moore

“… insurgency and counterinsurgency… have enjoyed a level of military, academic, and journalistic notice unseen since the mid-1960s. Scholars and practitioners have recently reexamined 19th- and 20th-century counterinsurgency campaigns waged by the United States and the European colonial powers, much as their predecessors during the Kennedy administration mined the past relentlessly in the hope of uncovering the secrets of revolutionary guerrilla warfare. The professional military literature is awash with articles on how the armed services should prepare for what the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) refers to as “irregular warfare,” and scholars, after a long hiatus, have sought to deepen our understanding of the roles that insurgency, terrorism, and related forms of political violence play in the international security environment.”

-William Rosenau, “Subversion and Terrorism: Understanding and Countering the Threat”

"Creative people are curious, flexible, persistent, and independent with a tremendous spirit of adventure and a love of play."

- Henri Matisse

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Duncan Moore.

1. New virus cases over 500 for 2nd day as pandemic deepens on cluster infections

2. Chinese FM warns Korea against siding with U.S.

3. Chinese FM meets parliamentary leader, says Koreas should control their peninsula's 'fate'

4. N. Korea orders overseas missions not to antagonize U.S.: S. Korea's state intelligence agency

5. Police halt breakup of anti-THAAD protesters in Seongju

6. Biden is Kim’s to lose

7. North Korea’s Kim vents fury as pressure mounts over virus and economy, South says

8. S. Korea agency says N. Korea executed people, shut capital

9. Third wave is result of belated, inconsistent response

10. Moon's special adviser urges S. Korea-Japan cooperation to help prevent 'new Cold War'

11. N. Korean authorities transfer border patrol regiment out of Hyesan

12. Ri Pyong Chol rushes to Hyesan to deal with the "Hyesan Incident"

13. Expert questions North Korea gold smuggling report

14. North Korea surveys population for illiterates, orders reading classes

15. Border restrictions drastically cut North Korea's trade

16. Moon meets top Chinese diplomat, requests role for inter-Korean ties

1. New virus cases over 500 for 2nd day as pandemic deepens on cluster infections

Yonhap News Agency · 주경돈 · November 27, 2020

Clusters - gatherings.

2. Chinese FM warns Korea against siding with U.S.

Chosun Ilbo · Ahn Jun-yong · November 27, 2020

The Minister said the quiet part out loud.

3. Chinese FM meets parliamentary leader, says Koreas should control their peninsula's 'fate'

Yonhap News Agency · 장동우 · November 27, 2020

Code for do not let the US interfere. All in support of the mutual objective of both China and North Korea: to split the ROK/US alliance. And with the not-so-subtle caveat that China will play a "constructive role" as an important neighbor, which means it will be constructive for Chinese interests.

4. N. Korea orders overseas missions not to antagonize U.S.: S. Korea's state intelligence agency

Yonhap News Agency · 장동우 · November 27, 2020

Interesting information and assessment. I am not sure about "irrational actions." Kim acts very rational and I think he is demonstrating that here if this report is accurate.

5. Police halt breakup of anti-THAAD protesters in Seongju

Yonhap News Agency · 유청모 · November 27, 2020

These are professional agitators who have hamstrung the ROK government and who are, of course, having a significant impact on operations and life support to our troops manning the THAAD Battery.

6. Biden is Kim’s to L=lose

War On the Rocks · Ramon Pacheco Pardo · November 27, 2020

Will Kim alter his strategy? If he does try to build a good relationship with Biden, will it be sincere or part of his political warfare strategy and long con?

I do fear that those whispering about dealing realistically with Kim really mean to give concessions, enter into arms control negotiations, and accept Kim as a nuclear power.

If we want to deal with Kim realistically, we need to check our assumptions as to the nature of the Kim family regime and its strategy and objectives.

7. North Korea’s Kim vents fury as pressure mounts over virus and economy, South says

Washington Post · Simon Denyer & Min Joo Kim · November 27, 2020

The question is how can the alliance exploit this pressure? But again, I am not sure if Kim's actions are irrational from the perspective of the nature of the Kim family regime.

8. S. Korea agency says N. Korea executed people, shut capital

AP · Hyung-Jin Kim · November 27, 2020

Again, executions are "rational" based on the history and nature of the Kim family regime.  Kim Jong-Un has been using executions as a tool for control since he took power.

9. Third wave is result of belated, inconsistent response

Dong-A Ilbo · November 27, 2020

Criticism of the ROK government. 

10. Moon’s special adviser urges S. Korea-Japan cooperation to help prevent ‘new Cold War’

Yonhap News Agency · 이원주 · November 26, 2020

I do not agree with Moon Chung-In too much, but I do agree that South Korea-Japan cooperation is a must for mutual security and prosperity. I do not think South Korea and Japan can "mediate" between the US and China.

11. N. Korean authorities transfer border patrol regiment out of Hyesan

Daily NK · Ha Yoon Ah · November 27, 2020

This is related to the alleged reports of gold smuggling: the "Hyesan incident." Hyesan has always been a focal point for resistance and illicit activities partly due to its proximity to the Chinese border.

12. Ri Pyong Chol rushes to Hyesan to deal with the "Hyesan Incident"

Daily NK · Lee Chae Un · November 26, 2020

This report seems to give credence to the gold smuggling report and the Hyesan incident, though there are some who question the gold smuggling. Sending the Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission seems like a significant action.

13. Expert questions North Korea gold smuggling report

Asia Times · Bradley K. Martin · November 26, 2020

It will be interesting to learn the truth (if we ever can).

14. North Korea surveys population for illiterates, orders reading classes

Radio Free Asia · Myungchul Lee, Leejin Jun, & Eugene Whong · November 25, 2020

Again, we should recognize the importance of Radio Free Asia and the contacts it maintains inside North Korea.

I think this is an illustration of the long-term effects of the "Arduous March" of the great famine of 1994-1996. Think about the impacts from COVID-19 and the regime's mitigation measures.

15. Border restrictions drastically cut North Korea's trade

Korea Joong Ang Daily · Park Sung-Woo & Lee Jee-Young · November 27, 2020

And, of course, smuggling as well. How long can these restrictions be maintained before there is a severe internal crisis? What is the "safety valve" for the people? The growing markets since the Arduous March of 1994-1996 have performed the function of a safety valve after the collapse of the public distribution system. These restrictions are going to eventually break those markets, which, of course, could be the objective of the regime (and Kim Jung-Un has the opportunity as well as an event on which to blame the collapse: COVID).

16. Moon meets top Chinese diplomat, requests role for inter-Korean ties

Yonhap News Agency · 오석민 · November 26, 2020

China will not solve South Korea (or ROK/US alliance) security problems on the Korean peninsula.

"I think, what has this day brought me, and what have I given it?"

- Henry Moore

“… insurgency and counterinsurgency… have enjoyed a level of military, academic, and journalistic notice unseen since the mid-1960s. Scholars and practitioners have recently reexamined 19th- and 20th-century counterinsurgency campaigns waged by the United States and the European colonial powers, much as their predecessors during the Kennedy administration mined the past relentlessly in the hope of uncovering the secrets of revolutionary guerrilla warfare. The professional military literature is awash with articles on how the armed services should prepare for what the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) refers to as “irregular warfare,” and scholars, after a long hiatus, have sought to deepen our understanding of the roles that insurgency, terrorism, and related forms of political violence play in the international security environment.”

-William Rosenau, “Subversion and Terrorism: Understanding and Countering the Threat”

"Creative people are curious, flexible, persistent, and independent with a tremendous spirit of adventure and a love of play."

- Henri Matisse

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Duncan Moore.

1. DOD statement on transition activities

2. Competing in the Pacific: a conversation with U.S. Army Chief of Staff General James C. McConville

3. Chinese party sets bold military goal: ‘mechanized & informationized’ by 2027

4. How one social media app is beating disinformation

5. China says it remains open to the world, but wants to dictate terms

6. Defense in depth: why U.S. security depends on alliances - now more than ever

7. In China, even your name is not safe

8. China vows 'legitimate' response to US admiral's visit to Taiwan

9. Biden’s likely Defense Secretary pick Flournoy faces progressive pushback

10. We have met the enemy, and it is us: restoring American power

11. Quad 2.0 is off to a good start - it must keep going

12. Even Trump's fiercest critics say he may have gotten some world affairs right

13. RCEP not to have a strong impact

14. Biden’s foreign-policy team takes shape

15. Pentagon reports $5B in improper payments to civilian workforce

16. America, heal thyself

17. Balancing counter-terrorism measures with international human rights

18. What does China think U.S.-China relations should look like?

19. Cooperative competition is possible between China and the U.S.

1. DOD statement on transition activities

US Department of Defense · November 23, 2020

2. Competing in the Pacific: a conversation with U.S. Army Chief of Staff General James C. McConville

FDD · Bradley Bowman · November 19, 2020

The CSA provides detailed insights throughout the INDOPACIFIC to include from his recent visit to Korea and Indonesia.

3. Chinese party sets bold military goal: ‘mechanized & informationized’ by 2027

Breaking Defense · Dean Cheng · November 23, 2020

4. How one social media app is beating disinformation

Foreign Policy · Elizabeth Lange & Doowan Lee · November 23, 2020

5. China says it remains open to the world, but wants to cictate terms

New York Times · Steven Lee Myers · November 24, 2020

My assessment: China seeks to export its authoritarian political system around the world in order to dominate regions, co-opt or coerce international organizations, create economic conditions favorable to China alone, and displace democratic institutions.

6. Defense in depth: why U.S. security depends on alliances - now more than ever

Foreign Affairs · Kori Schake, Jim Mattis, Jim Ellis, & Joe Felter · November 23, 2020

Here is a dream team of authors who know a thing or two about alliances.

7. In China, even your name is not safe

Safeguard Defenders · November 24, 2020

The 24-page report can be downloaded at this link.

8. China vows 'legitimate' response to US admiral's visit to Taiwan

Hill · Ellen Mitchell · November 23, 2020

So, what is a "legitimate response and necessary reactions"?

9. Biden’s likely Defense Secretary pick Flournoy faces progressive pushback

Foreign Policy · Jack Detsch & Robbie Gramer · November 23, 2020

I think the progressives would be well served to leave Defense to Ms. Flournoy.

10. We have met the enemy, and it is us: restoring American power

Defense One · Gregory D. Foster · November 23, 2020

There are elements of the NSS and NDS that should be preserved. I hope the Biden administration will embrace those strategies. I hope they will not throw the baby out with the bath water or take the position of “not invented here” or that the new administration must undo and do the opposite of everything of the previous administration. I hope they do an objective analysis of the strategies and preserve what is necessary for the national security of the U.S.

As an example, this excerpt from the NSS should transcend administrations:

"A democracy is only as resilient as its people. An informed and engaged citizenry is the fundamental requirement for a free and resilient nation. For generations, our society has protected free press, free speech, and free thought. Today, actors such as Russia are using information tools in an attempt to undermine the legitimacy of democracies. Adversaries target media, political processes, financial networks, and personal data. The American public and private sectors must recognize this and work together to defend our way of life. No external threat can be allowed to shake our shared commitment to our values, undermine our system of government, or divide our Nation."

Thanks to Nadia Schadlow and HR McMaster for giving us these wise words.

11. Quad 2.0 is off to a good start - it must keep going

Diplomat · Manoj Rawat · November 23, 2020

The Quad and Quad Plus is something the Biden administration must preserve and pursue.

12. Even Trump’s fiercest critics say he may have gotten some world affairs right

USA Today · Kim Hjelmgaard & Deirdre Shesgreen · November 24, 2020

I would say the Trump administration's policies may provide the Biden administration with a lot of flexibility for the future. In addition, the conditions have changed such that no one should be expecting a reversion to Obama era policies. I also think Biden is his own foreign policy man and will not be tied to previous Obama or even Democratic policies. Again, I hope the Biden administration conducts an objective review and preserves the right policies and strategies (again specifically from the NSS and NDS).

13. RCEP not to have a strong impact

Taipei Times · Yen Huai-shing · November 23, 2020

Interesting view from Taiwan.

14. Biden’s foreign-policy team takes shape

Wall Street Journal · Walter Russel Mead · November 23, 2020

Concur. It will not be an Obama foreign policy reprise.

15. Pentagon reports $5B in improper payments to civilian workforce

Federal News Network · Jared Serbu · November 23, 2020

Ouch.

16. America, heal thyself

Project Syndicate · Ana Palacio · November 20, 2020

The domestic divisions will not go away anytime so or even ever. Of course, the divisions have always existed, but, as long as those on both sides of the divide remain committed to the Constitution and searching for a more perfect union as part of the great American experiment, we will prevail despite the divides.

17. Balancing counter-terrorism measures with international human rights

Modern Diplomacy · Siddharth Singh · November 23, 2020

18. What does China think U.S.-China relations should look like?

New York Times · Kathleen Kingsbury · November 24, 2020

19. Cooperative competition is possible between China and the U.S.

New York Times · Fu Ying · November 24, 2020

The op-ed from a Chinese official. I wonder if we get to publish one in the Global Times or Xinhua?

"The mind of the enemy and the will of his leaders is a target of far   more importance than the bodies of his troops."

- Mao Zedong

“If your opponent is temperamental, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. If sovereign and subject are in accord, put division between them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.”

- Sun Tzu

"War is getting sneakier. War is going underground. And we have to go underground with it. We have to fight in the shadows. Otherwise, we will be left behind."

- Sean McFate

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Duncan Moore.

1. Prolonged silence: North Korea seems troubled with how to cope with the incoming US administration

2. Treasury sanctions companies exporting North Korean labor to Russia

3. Joe Biden's Korea strategy needs to be grounded in reality

4. North Korea: how Joe Biden could reset negotiations

5.  US military reports more than 50 new coronavirus patients in Japan and South Korea

6. Joe Biden should learn from history when dealing with North Korea

7. Biden’s mission: unite Japan and South Korea

8. Report: North Korean defector who vaulted over DMZ fence is former gymnast

9. Covid-19 unleashes new wave of North Korean refugees

10. North Korean students shot for sex abuse, report says

11. Covid-19 vaccine research in India, abroad bombarded by North Korean, Russian hackers

12. N. Korea publishes picture album featuring weapons under leader Kim Jong-un

13. North Koreans 'will pay with their lives' after forest fire that threatened base

14. Biden's pick for top diplomat expected to look to Iran formula for N.K. denuke

15. Revision to Enterprise Act strengthens government control over private businesses

16. Unification minister’s inter-Korean illusion and outdated behaviors

17. Bridging the divide in the U.S.-South Korea alliance

18. Chinese FM visits Korea this week

19. Elderly mother of North Korean official dies after he kicks her out of his home

20. Why North Korea could not implement the Chinese style reform and opening? The internal contradiction between economic reform and political stability

21. Competing in the Pacific: a conversation with U.S. Army Chief of Staff General James C. McConville

1. Prolonged silence: North Korea seems troubled with how to cope with the incoming US administration

Korea Herald · November 22, 2020

Perhaps both Kim and Biden will be dealing with the same crisis: COVID-19?

2. Treasury sanctions companies exporting North Korean labor to Russia

FDD · Mathew Ha · November 23, 2020

The latest from my colleague, Mathew Ha.

3. Joe Biden's Korea strategy needs to be grounded in reality

National Interest · Doug Bandow · November 23, 2020

Reality?

Here is the reality. Assisting in the defense South Korea is secondary to the main US interest: deterring war on the Korean peninsula. And we know from history, analysis, and high-ranking defectors (e.g Hwang Jong-yop) that it is the presence of US forces that deters the Kim family regime. If we remove troops. there will be conflict on the Korea peninsula. Such a conflict will be catastrophic in the region but will have severe global effects.

It is a pipe dream to think that the nuclear umbrella and air and sea-based power is sufficient for deterrence when we know it is the presence of US troops that serves as the deterrent. Basing deterrence offshore may as well be called the new Acheson strategy. It is a recipe for conflict. 

And the argument of trading an American city for Seoul is ludicrous. Removing US troops from the peninsula will in no way deter or prevent Kim from deciding to launch an ICBM against the US. And it is a fool's errand to think we can trade US troops for denuclearization. In fact, it will only reinforce the idea that Kim can attack the South and his nuclear armed ICBM will deter us returning to assist in the defense of the South.

Reality? We should remember this reality: this is why we describe the Kim family regime as a mafia-like crime family cult that employs a political warfare strategy based on subversion, coercion/extortion (blackmail diplomacy), and someday when the alliance is split, the use of force to dominate the peninsula. The proposals in this article will lead to a splitting of the alliance and then war on the Korean peninsula.

4. North Korea: how Joe Biden could reset negotiations

National Interest · Seong-Chang Cheong · November 23, 2020

Certainly, some out of the box thinking - VP-Elect Harris negotiating with Kim Yo-Jong or Choe Ryong-Hae?

Paradoxically, the brighter future we have offered and the economic engagement proposed by South Korea are also threats to the survival of the regime because such a future and engagement will lead to opening, information, and undermining the legitimacy of the regime.

5. US military reports more than 50 new coronavirus patients in Japan and South Korea

Stars & Stripes · Joseph Ditzler & Aya Ichihashi · November 23, 2020

6. Joe Biden should learn from history when dealing with North Korea

National Interest · Hazel Smith · November 23, 2020

Yes, we should learn from history. But we also need to be careful with our assumptions. I also agree that the regime is "knowable" and is not irrational.

I think it is an erroneous assumption that the Kim family regime wants security guarantees so that it can live in peace. Yes, survival of the regime is paramount, but there are two things to consider. First, the regime will never trust any US or South Korean or international community security guarantees. Second, the regime believes it will only attain the security necessary for survival of the regime is if it dominates the Korean peninsula and brings it under the total rule of the Guerrilla Dynasty and Gulag State.

This analysis just does not go far enough and to work from the assumptions here will not lead to denuclearization. The regime is just not going to trade nuclear weapons for security guarantees.

7. Biden’s mission: unite Japan and South Korea

Asia Times · Daniel Sneider · November 24, 2020

A worthy and important objective. Is it possible? I will settle for at least amicable relations and a commitment by both leaders of Korea and Japan to place national security and national prosperity ahead of historical issues.

8. Report: North Korean defector who vaulted over DMZ fence is former gymnast

UPI · Elizabeth Shim · November 23, 2020

A gymnast? The South Barrier Fence of the DMZ is pretty high. He must be very good. And we should learn that technology is insufficient to prevent infiltration. You need aggressive patrolling, which is manpower intensive.

9. Covid-19 unleashes new wave of North Korean refugees

Asia Times · Bertil Lintner · November 23, 2020

10. North Korean students shot for sex abuse, report says

Asia Times · Bradley K. Martin · November 24, 2020

More insights into the nature of the Kim family regime as well as the elites.

11. Covid-19 vaccine research in India, abroad bombarded by North Korean, Russian hackers

News 18 · Shouvik Das · November 24, 2020

No surprise.

12. N. Korea publishes picture album featuring weapons under leader Kim Jong-un

Yonhap News Agency · 이원주 · November 24, 2020

Coincidence? USFK decides not to publish the UNC/CFC/USFK Strategic Digest this year.

13. North Koreans 'will pay with their lives' after forest fire that threatened base

Mirror · Michael Havis · November 24, 2020

More insights into the nature of the Kim family regime.

I wonder what our ISR observes regarding the effects of the fire.

14. Biden’s pick for top diplomat expected to look to Iran formula for N.K. denuke

Yonhap News Agency · 송상호 · November 24, 2020

North Korea is not Iran and I am sure Mr. Blinken knows that fact.

15. Revision to Enterprise Act strengthens government control over private businesses

Daily NK · Jang Seun Gi · November 24, 2020

Further crackdowns on (relatively) "free enterprise" and nascent capitalism. These are measures to allow the regime to tighten control over every aspect of the economy and this the people.

16. Unification minister’s inter-Korean illusion and outdated behaviors

Dong-A Ilbo · November 24, 2020

I cannot beat this drum enough. The Moon administration needs to reexamine its fundamental assumptions about the nature of the Kim family regime and its strategies and objectives. The incoming Biden administration should use the MOFA-State strategy working group to assess assumptions and develop and alliance approach to strategy toward North Korea.

17. Bridging the divide in the U.S.-South Korea alliance

Center for American Progress · Michael Fuchs & Haneul Lee · November 23, 2020

A progressive analysis of the alliance that concludes with a call for cooperation among progressives in both countries

18. Chinese FM visits Korea this week

Chosun Ilbo · Kim Eun-joong · November 24, 2020

19. Elderly mother of North Korean official dies after he kicks her out of his home

Radio Free Asia · Hyemin Son, Leejin Jun, & Eugene Whong · November 24, 2020

More on the nature of the Kim family regime and its party officials.

20. Why North Korea could not implement the Chinese style reform and opening? The internal contradiction between economic reform and political stability

SAGE Journals · Sungmin Cho · November 6, 2020

From our good friend Sungmin Cho, former ROK Army intelligence officer, Georgetown PhD, and now professor at APCSS in Hawaii.

He answers the age-old question in the title. I do not know how many times I have heard the question, why doesn't North Korea just open up and reform like China?

21. Competing in the Pacific: a conversation with U.S. Army Chief of Staff General James C. McConville

FDD · Clifford D. May · November 19, 2020

The CSA provides detailed insights throughout the INDOPACIFIC to include from his recent visit to Korea and Indonesia.

Unfortunately, I do not think the Romiania analogy is going to work with the South Koreans.

"The mind of the enemy and the will of his leaders is a target of far   more importance than the bodies of his troops."

- Mao Zedong

“If your opponent is temperamental, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. If sovereign and subject are in accord, put division between them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.”

- Sun Tzu

"War is getting sneakier. War is going underground. And we have to go underground with it. We have to fight in the shadows. Otherwise, we will be left behind."

- Sean McFate