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

1. N. Korean leader Kim given coronavirus vaccine from China: U.S. expert

2. North Korea: Kim Jong Un given coronavirus vaccine - 19FortyFive

3. Ex-CIA official suggests Biden administration propose working-level talks with N. Korea

4. S. Korea, U.S. are not just allies but family: Ambassador Harris

5. S. Korea, U.S. hold first defense cost talks since U.S. election

6. FM calls for efforts to develop alliance, Korea peace process with Biden administration

7. Business and opinion leaders stress need to mend Seoul-Tokyo rift

8. Pres. Moon’s plan to provide rice to N. Korea is canceled

9. Risks over Korea-China-Japan FTA

10. Why sanctions are not the way to fix relations with North Korea

11. Korean, U.S. negotiators hold icebreaker on stalled cost-sharing deal

12. New beer factory in N. Korea

13. Half of N. Korea's First Corps not ready to take part in winter training

14. N. Hamgyong Province witnesses soaring prices and more homeless on the streets

15. Another massive military event could be on tap in North Korea

16. N. Korea might seek to improve cross-border ties to strengthen leverage over Washington: think tank

17. Trump exit prompts calls for arms control offer to Kim Jong Un

18. New ‘BTS law’ is passed in South Korea. An army of fans rejoices.

19. 'Stealing our culture': South Koreans upset after China claims kimchi as its own

20. Kim Jong-un on brink: despot 'venting anger' and making bizarre decisions - alert issued

21. China claims Great Wall stretched near Korean Peninsula

22. How China can craft a better relationship with South Korea

23. South Korea matters more to the United States than North Korea’s nukes

1. N. Korean leader Kim given coronavirus vaccine from China: U.S. expert

Yonhap News Agency · 변덕근 · November 30, 2020

A question: does China have a safe vaccine that works? How does Harry know that Kim received the vaccine?

2. North Korea: Kim Jong Un given coronavirus vaccine - 19FortyFive

1945 · Harry Kazianis · November 30, 2020

Ah... two anonymous Japanese intelligence sources have provided this information.

3. Ex-CIA official suggests Biden administration propose working-level talks with N. Korea

Yonhap News Agency · 최수향 · December 1, 2020

We have sought working level talks since Singapore in June 2018. Why will Kim allow them now?

But, coming from Andrew Kim, this is an important assessment.

4. S. Korea, U.S. are not just allies but family: Ambassador Harris

Yonhap News Agency · 오석민 · December 1, 2020

5. S. Korea, U.S. hold first defense cost talks since U.S. election

Yonhap News Agency · 김승연 · December 1, 2020

This must have been an interesting discussion.

6. FM calls for efforts to develop alliance, Korea peace process with Biden administration

Yonhap News Agency · 이해아 · November 30, 2020

We can fix SMA and get OPCON transition on track and solve the training issues for USFK but if we cannot sufficiently align alliance strategic assumptions about the nature and strategy of the Kim family regime friction within the alliance will remain.

7. Business and opinion leaders stress need to mend Seoul-Tokyo rift

Korea Joong Ang Daily · Kim Da-Young & Sarah Kim · November 30, 2020

This is a good step forward. They need to tell Moon and Suga that they need to prioritize national security and national prosperity while pledging to manage the complex historical issues (and pledging not to allow the historical issues to interfere with national security and national prosperity).

8. Pres. Moon’s plan to provide rice to N. Korea is canceled

Dong-A Ilbo · Oh-Hyuk Kwon · December 1, 2020

Again, the Korean people in the North suffer because of the decision making of Kim Jong-Un.

9. Risks over Korea-China-Japan FTA

Dong-A Ilbo · December 1, 2020

Can South Korea maintain "strategic ambiguity?”

10. Why sanctions are not the way to fix relations with North Korea

World Economic Forum · Geoffrey See · November 30, 2020

Quite a thesis put forth by the author. I am not convinced. I am especially not convinced, because this goes against the nature of the Kim family regime. It assumes the regime wants engagement and peace and reconciliation. That assumption could not be more wrong.

11. Korean, U.S. negotiators hold icebreaker on stalled cost-sharing deal

Korea Joong Ang Daily · Sarah Kim · December 1, 2020

Icebreaker?

12. New beer factory in N. Korea

Yonhap News Agency · November 30, 2020

Important news from North Korea. :-)  A display of normalcy.

But seriously: priorities, priorities.

13. Half of N. Korea’s First Corps not ready to take part in winter training

Daily NK · Jeong Tae Joo · December 1, 2020

Obviously ,an important indicator. You can show off all kinds of modern military equipment at a military parade. but it matters naught if you do not have soldiers trained to use it.

I would like to know the status of the other three frontline corps (4, 2, and 5, especially the 2d and 5th corps) as well as the mechanized and armored units.

14. N. Hamgyong Province witnesses soaring prices and more homeless on the streets

Daily NK · Kim Yoo Jin · December 1, 2020

Tragic suffering of the Korean people living in the North. Will it lead to civil unrest and political resistance and political violence? Based on past history and the apparent continued effectiveness of the security services, suppression of any opposition will continue.

15. Another massive military event could be on tap in North Korea

Korea Joong Ang Daily · Park Yong-Han & Shim Kyu-Seok · December 1, 2020

Yet half of the North Korean 1st Corps is unavailable to conduct the winter training cycle.

16. N. Korea might seek to improve cross-border ties to strengthen leverage over Washington: think tank

Yonhap News Agency · 고병준 · December 1, 2020

I doubt the North is going to pursue improved cross-border cooperation. But if it does, it will not be for the intent of leverage. It will be to drive a wedge in the alliance. Divide to conquer, divide the ROK/US alliance to conquer the ROK.

17. Trump exit prompts calls for arms control offer to Kim Jong Un

Financial Times · Edward White · December 1, 2020

This is exactly what Kim Jong-Un wants: to conduct arms control negotiations (SALT and START-like) so it can retain its nuclear weapons and be recognized as a nuclear power. This will be an interim victory for the regime's political warfare strategy and long con.

18. New ‘BTS law’ is passed in South Korea. An army of fans rejoices.

New York Times · Choe Sang-Hun · December 1, 2020

A breakdown in Korean culture? What will be the second and third order and future effects of this law?  On the other hand, perhaps the military is happy about this development as it will not have to deal with these celebrities who are distractions to military training and operations.

19. 'Stealing our culture': South Koreans upset after China claims kimchi as its own

Guardian · Justin McCurry · December 1, 2020

A soft power competition.

20. Kim Jong-Un on brink: despot 'venting anger' and making bizarre decisions - alert issued

Express · Rachel Russell · November 30, 2020

The nature of a despotic leader.  Note the Express has not updated its military power chart and still lists North Korea as having 20 aircraft carriers.

21. China claims Great Wall stretched near Korean Peninsula

UPI · Elizabeth Shim · November 30, 2020

I think this must be an attempt to prevent Korean claims to old Koguryo, which extended well into Manchuria (see the map here).

22. How China can craft a better relationship with South Korea

National Interest · Doug Bandow · November 30, 2020

Why would we want to violate Napoleon's dictum to never interrupt an enemy when he is making a mistake? Why do we want to help China bring South Korea closer to it? If China follows this advice, the ROK and US should exploit it. However, I do not think China is going to change its strategy toward either North or South Korea.

23. South Korea matters more to the United States than North Korea’s nukes

Foreign Policy · S. Nathan Park · November 30, 2020

This is a difficult concept for many to grasp. One point I will continue to emphasize is that there will be no success regarding denuclearization or any outcome on the Korean peninsula (e.g., the Korea question) without a strong ROK/US alliance.

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.”

- Viktor Frankl

 “Failure is nothing more than a chance to revise your strategy.”

- Anonymous

"The heart of our problem, here, lies in our assessment of the relative importance of the various dangers among which we move; and until many of our people can be brought to understand that what we have to do is not to secure a total absence of danger but to balance peril against peril and to find the tolerable degree of each, we shall not wholly emerge from these confusions."

- George Kennan

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

1. Why RCEP is a big deal

2. Xi’s masterplan for a homogeneous new China

3. Biden has many good choices at SecDef

4. The next administration should bring the shadow wars into the light

5. Beijing’s line on the South China Sea: “nothing to see here”

6. China official fuels outrage with doctored image depicting Australian soldier cutting Afghan child’s throat

7. Duterte’s China policy critics change their tune

8. Footsoldiers of democracy, election officials became targets of rage

9. Who will be Biden’s defense secretary?

10. A successful U.S. missile intercept ends the era of nuclear stability

11. Fired director of U.S. cyber agency Chris Krebs explains why President Trump's claims of election interference are false

12. Ousted cybersecurity director says Trump "deserves credit" for making 2020 election most secure in modern history

13. Beijing takes its South China Sea strategy to the Himalayas

14. When the experts fail, everyone else pays the price

15. REPORT: Lt Gen McInerney reports US Special Forces attacked CIA server farm in Germany in server seizure operation, 5 soldiers killed, servers secured

16. An assessment of the national security implications of first contact

1. Why RCEP is a big deal

East Asia Forum · Christopher Findlay · November 30, 2020

A useful short summary of RCEP.

2. Xi’s masterplan for a homogeneous new China

Asia Times · Bertil Lintner · November 30, 2020

Interesting theory - eradicate poverty by making everyone the same (or “diluting the negative influence of religion.”)

3. Biden has many good choices at SecDef

Defense One · James Joyner · November 29, 2020

I also think Ms. Flournoy is the best qualified of all the candidates.

4. The next administration should bring the shadow wars into the light

Defense One · Daniel R. Mahanty & Rachel Stohl · November 25, 2020

The 36-page report, titled "Exception to the Rule(s): Civilian Harm, Oversight, and Accountability in the Shadow Wars," can be downloaded here.

5. Beijing’s line on the South China Sea: “Nothing to see here”

Interpreter · Oriana Skylar Mastro · November 27, 2020

Defensive only? 

Dr Skylar Mastro describes why the Chinese actions are not.

6. China official fuels outrage with doctored image depicting Australian soldier cutting Afghan child’s throat

Washington Post · Gerry Shih · November 30, 2020

Ham-handed information operations?  Image here.

7. Duterte’s China policy critics change their tune

Asia Times · Mark Valencia · November 30, 2020

The author seems to carry China's water. He seems to be saying give up your national claims and compromise with China (which really means settle on China's terms).

8. Footsoldiers of democracy, election officials became targets of rage

Christian Science Monitor · Story Hinckley · November 25, 2020

It is because of these patriots that we have the best chance of free and fair elections. They should be respected and applauded for their selfless service.

9. Who will be Biden’s defense secretary?

American Spectator · Jed Babbin · November 30, 2020

This is pure BS.

10. A successful U.S. missile intercept ends the era of nuclear stability

Washington Post · Andreas Kluth · November 30, 2020

Do we really want to employ the concept of mutual assured destruction with rogue states like North Korea? I am just partial to North Korea's assured destruction if it launches a nuclear weapon.

I think this is a pipe dream.

11. Fired director of U.S. cyber agency Chris Krebs explains why President Trump's claims of election interference are false

CBS News · Scott Pelley · November 30, 2020

Watch the 60 minutes video here.

Krebs is arguably the smartest person on election security from a cyber perspective. I do not understand how people cannot accept him as a credible government official.

12. Ousted cybersecurity director says Trump "deserves credit" for making 2020 election most secure in modern history

Newsweek · Christina Zhao · November 29, 2020

Yes, he does. He appointed Krebs and I believe CISA was created on his watch and they have been focused on making this election secure since 2017.

13. Beijing takes its South China Sea strategy to the Himalayas

New York Times · Steven Lee Myers · November 27, 2020

14. When the experts fail, everyone else pays the price

Wall Street Journal · David Mamet · November 27, 2020

Hmmm... quite a critique. I will continue to trust the experts rather than playwrights, film directors, and screenwriters.

15. REPORT: Lt Gen McInerney reports US Special Forces attacked CIA server farm in Germany in server seizure operation, 5 soldiers killed, servers secured

OpsLens · CD Media · November 28, 2020

Wow. These guys are really dangerous and not just delusions - Special Forces versus CIA paramilitary?  Really?

16. An assessment of the national security implications of first contact

Divergent Options · Lee Clark · November 30, 2020

And now for something completely different: an interesting thought piece.

"We must face the fact that the United States is neither omnipotent or omniscient - that we are only 6 percent of the world's population; that we cannot impose our will upon the other 94 percent of mankind; that we cannot right every wrong or reverse each adversity; and therefore there cannot be an American solution to every world problem." 

- President John F. Kennedy

"History is the best antidote to delusions of omnipotence and omniscience. Self-knowledge is the indispensable prelude to self-control, for the nation as well as for the individual, and history should forever remind us of the limits of our passing perspectives. It should strengthen us to resist the pressure to convert momentary impulses into moral absolutes. It should lead us to acknowledge our profound and chastening frailty as human beings - to a recognition of the fact, so often and so sadly displayed, that the future outwits all our certitudes and that the possibilities of the future are more various than the human intellect is designed to conceive."

- Arthur M. Schlesinger, Jr.

Word of the Day is 'snollygoster' (19th century, US): one who abandons all integrity in favour of power.

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

1. Diplomacy over human rights: where is the red line?

2. N.Korea building 'coronavirus wall'

3. Inspections of defector groups were aboveboard, Seoul tells UN

4. Wang Yi's visit highlights differences in Korea, China's priorities

5. U.S. rattles saber against N.Korea, China

6. Pyongyang medical school 'sold COVID drugs on the side'

7. China claims victory in kimchi wars

8. S. Korea refutes China's claim on industrial standard for kimchi

9. Korean American Congress members vow policies for immigration system, closer ties with Korea

10. U.S. flies reconnaissance planes over S. Korea: aviation tracker

11. 13 more USFK-affiliated individuals infected with coronavirus

12. S. Korea in talks with WFP to redeem money sent for N.K. rice aid

13. Four soldiers executed for taking part in Hyesan Incident

14. Economic difficulties lead to downsizing of end-of-year events

15. North Korea missile test 'likely' when Joe Biden becomes POTUS - 'nukes here to stay'

16. Kim Jong-Un "harshly criticises" economic agencies as pressure over ailing economy rises

17. Ex-president Chun found guilty of defaming 1980 massacre witness

18. Kim Jong Un is cutting off his economic lifeline, China, to stave off Covid-19

19. As their 'American dream' sours, Koreans in the US eye a return home

1. Diplomacy over human rights: where is the red line?

Daily NK · Gabriela Bernal · November 30, 2020

The Moon administration is going to pursue its engagement strategy and peace and reconciliation strategy at any cost. Some of those bearing the highest cost are the Korean people living in the North.

It is a huge mistake to assume that by avoiding human rights we can engender cooperation with North Korea. A lack of focus on human rights is another indicator to Kim Jong-Un that his political warfare strategy is working.

2. N. Korea building 'coronavirus wall'

Chosun Ilbo · Yang Seung-sik · November 30, 2020

A wall to keep the virus out but also tp keep people in.

I remember Thae Yong-ho telling us one of the reasons he escaped/defected was because he could no longer explain the contradictions of the Kim family regime.

3. Inspections of defector groups were aboveboard, Seoul tells UN

Korea Joong Ang Daily · Shim Kyu-Seok & Yonhap · November 30, 2020

They never should have been "inspected" at all. And there should be no illusion that this somehow appeases North Korea. Instead, the regime again has learned that it can use political warfare to manipulate the South.

4. Wang Yi’s visit highlights differences in Korea, China’s priorities

Korea Times · Do Je-hae · November 30, 2020

Of course, China highlights economic ties. This ensures China's ability to conduct economic warfare against the South (which it continues to do over THAAD). The South should expect no significant cooperation on issues like North Korea.

5. U.S. rattles saber against N. Korea, China

Chosun Ilbo · Yang Seung-sik · November 30, 2020

The ROK government would do well to highlight ROK military activities as well. An alliance influence operation would be much more effective than US unilateral "saber rattling." It pains me to read ROK government officials describing US operations only and not discussing ROK and US military activities as part of an alliance strategy. One of the conditions of OPCON transition should be the ROK government conducting effective influence operations.

6. Pyongyang medical school 'sold COVID drugs on the side'

Chosun Ilbo · Kim Myong-song · November 30, 2020

Corruption in North Korea occurs across the spectrum of society.

7. China claims victory in kimchi wars

Chosun Ilbo · Lee Sung-hoon & Lee Beul-chan · November 30, 2020

This means war. China is hitting South Korea where it really hurts. We have hard power, soft power, and this is spicy hot power.

8. S. Korea refutes China's claim on industrial standard for kimchi

Yonhap News Agency · 강윤승 · November 30, 2020

South Korea is not going to take Chinese claims lying down.

9. Korean American Congress members vow policies for immigration system, closer ties with Korea

Korea Times · Jung Da-min · November 30, 2020

South Korea expects Congressional action from these four to be favorable to South Korea.

10. U.S. flies reconnaissance planes over S. Korea: aviation tracker

Yonhap News Agency · 오석민 · November 30, 2020

11. 13 more USFK-affiliated individuals infected with coronavirus

Yonhap News Agency · 최수향 · November 30, 2020

12. S. Korea in talks with WFP to redeem money sent for N.K. rice aid

Yonhap News Agency · 이원주 · November 30, 2020

Another example of the regime's deliberate policy decisions harming the Korean people living in the North.

And please do not make the argument that we should halt military exercises so the North will accept humanitarian aid. That simply plays into the regime's political warfare strategy.

13. Four soldiers executed for taking part in Hyesan Incident

Daily NK · Lee Chae Un · November 30, 2020

Swift North Korean "justice."

14. Economic difficulties lead to downsizing of end-of-year events

Daily NK · Kang Mi Jin · November 30, 2020

Significant impact from the food shortages.

15. North Korea missile test 'likely' when Joe Biden becomes POTUS - 'nukes here to stay'

Express · Edward Browne · November 30, 2020

Will he or won't he test?

As an aside, note the graphic on North Korean military power.  I do not think north Korea has 20 aircraft carriers.

16. Kim Jong-Un "harshly criticises" economic agencies as pressure over ailing economy rises

Telegraph · Nicola Smith · November 30, 2020

But the economic decisions are made by Kim Jong-Un. He is solely responsible for the deliberate policy decisions that cause the suffering of the Korean people in the North.

17. Ex-president Chun found guilty of defaming 1980 massacre witness

Yonhap News Agency · 이해아 · November 30, 2020

A major objective of the moon administration is to control the narrative of Kwangju and to build the legitimacy of the progressive on the idea that the participants in Kwangju were great freedom fighters and the administration is out to get anyone who tries to counter that narrative.

18. Kim Jong Un is cutting off his economic lifeline, China, to stave off Covid-19

CNN · Joshua Berlinger · November 30, 2020

Cutting off his nose to spite his face.

But the key cause of the regime's troubles and the people's suffering is the deliberate decision making by Kim Jong-Un in the face of these conditions.

19. As their 'American dream' sours, Koreans in the US eye a return home

South China Morning Post · David D. Lee · November 22, 2020

This should give us pause.

"We must face the fact that the United States is neither omnipotent or omniscient - that we are only 6 percent of the world's population; that we cannot impose our will upon the other 94 percent of mankind; that we cannot right every wrong or reverse each adversity; and therefore there cannot be an American solution to every world problem." 

- President John F. Kennedy

"History is the best antidote to delusions of omnipotence and omniscience. Self-knowledge is the indispensable prelude to self-control, for the nation as well as for the individual, and history should forever remind us of the limits of our passing perspectives. It should strengthen us to resist the pressure to convert momentary impulses into moral absolutes. It should lead us to acknowledge our profound and chastening frailty as human beings - to a recognition of the fact, so often and so sadly displayed, that the future outwits all our certitudes and that the possibilities of the future are more various than the human intellect is designed to conceive."

- Arthur M. Schlesinger, Jr.

Word of the Day is 'snollygoster' (19th century, US): one who abandons all integrity in favour of power.

This piece originally appeared at USIP.org.

Full Article: https://www.usip.org/publications/2020/11/afghanistan-withdrawal-should-be-based-conditions-not-timelines

By Scott Worden

A rapid, unconditional U.S. exit puts the peace process and the gains Afghanistan has made in the last 20 years into serious jeopardy.

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