In 2020, when Kim Jong-Un disappeared for three weeks, the world went into full speculation mode.
Was he ill? Dead? On a secret mission to binge-watch K-dramas? South Korean officials, however, reported no unusual activity, reminding everyone that just because someone’s off the radar, it doesn’t mean they’re gone.
If he were to vanish again, it might take weeks or even months before the outside world caught on. His public appearances are tightly controlled, and official announcements are rare. The regime could easily project an image of stability until uncertainty inevitably leaks out.
But once rumors start swirling, the stakes would skyrocket faster than, well… a North Korean missile test.
Inside the country, chaos would unfold. Power is a tightly controlled family affair, but without a clear successor, who takes charge?
His sister, Kim Yo-jong, is often seen as the likely candidate. She’s already a prominent political figure, wielding influence behind the scenes. Rival groups, including high-ranking generals and party leaders, could see Kim’s disappearance as a chance to grab power. A power struggle could lead to military coups, or even the collapse of the regime.
The regime uses surveillance, harsh punishments, and propaganda to enforce loyalty. Families can be punished for one person’s actions, keeping people in fear.
South Korea would lock down its borders and brace for potential chaos. Any sign of instability could provoke military provocations. China, North Korea’s biggest ally and economic lifeline, isn’t just worried about nuclear bunkers. They see North Korea as a buffer state keeping American forces at bay. If Kim Jong-Un disappeared, China might step in to secure nuclear sites and maybe even install a leader of its choice.
The United States would face complicated choices. If Chinese and U.S. forces found themselves face-to-face while attempting to secure nuclear facilities, tensions could escalate rapidly. Oh and let’s not forget Russia, which shares a small border with North Korea. It could see this as an opportunity to expand its influence in the region, or at least ensure its borders stay secure.
The disappearance of Kim Jong-Un wouldn’t just be a North Korean problem, it would be a global crisis. The uncertainty could redefine alliances, reshape borders, and destabilize economies. Leaders would be forced to navigate a high-stakes game of diplomacy and strategy, where one wrong move could spark conflict or chaos.
