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Source: 30dB.com – North%20Korea-and-PyeongChang
Former President George W. Bush called it a member of the “axis of evil.” But this year’s Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea, could be the start of a 180-degree turn for the pariah state. It has unleashed what’s being referred to as a “charm offensive,” a display of friendship and goodwill featuring 229 photogenic cheerleaders, olive branches towards long-time enemy South Korea, and Kim Yo-jong, the smiling if enigmatic sister of North Korean ruler Kim Jong-un. The public relations strategy is being hailed as a diplomatic coup and is getting a pretty warm reception on Social, too. North Korea’s presence in PyeongChang is pulling 57 percent positive sentiments. But those who have seen the inside of the North Korean regime don’t think the West should be so easily seduced. “I went there five times, lived there undercover,” author Suki Kim said. “They are masters at propaganda and lying all the time.” Vice-President Mike Pence seemed to have agreed: He didn’t stand for the North Korean delegation’s entry into the Olympic Stadium. –Hugo Guzman
Republished from 30dB