“This book is a strong tonic for much of the current thinking that sees North Korea as either a rogue or failed state. Dr. Bechtol effectively argues that it is both, meaning that policy makers face a much more complex dilemma when dealing with the DPRK. This is a very important read.”
~ Dr. Paul R. Kan, Associate Professor of National Security Studies, US Army War College

“To the surprise of many, North Korea still exists in spite of many policy failures. As Bruce Bechtol deftly details in his Defiant Failed State, North Korea has exercised its limited powers skillfully, in the process exposing the powerlessness of other states. As he also clearly explains, the end of the Kim Jong-Il regime may bring new surprises, ones for which the international community is seriously unprepared.”

~ Richard C. Bush, Senior Fellow, The Brookings Institution