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The North Korea Watcher ego trap: Flaunting credentials from failed policies
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The North Korea Watcher ego trap: Flaunting credentials from failed policies

The North Korea Watcher "expert" ecosystem is a tight-knit, often self-congratulatory circle.

Jan 07, 2025
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Junotane Korea
Junotane Korea
The North Korea Watcher ego trap: Flaunting credentials from failed policies
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In the peculiar realm of the North Korea Watcher, a curious phenomenon unfolds: a seemingly insatiable desire among watchers, commentators, and analysts to remind us, repeatedly, of their former positions in government, think tanks, and academia. It's as if proximity to power—even when that power produced failure—is a badge of honor. This ostentatious display of credentials is not just unseemly; it’s counterproductive, undermining the credibility of the very insights they purport to offer.

The North Korea Watcher “expert” ecosystem is a tight-knit, often self-congratulatory circle (most would add another word to this). On social media platforms and in think-tank panel discussions, résumés are wielded like cudgels. The message is clear: "I was in the room where it happened." They flaunt their attendance at high-level meetings, advisory roles during summits, or contributions to sanctions strategies. The classic line comes in big wig conferences at plush hotels in Seoul.

The older, nearly …

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