Free Republic

SEOUL (Reuters) – North Korean leader Kim Jong-il has asked his country's overseas missions to pledge loyalty to his youngest son, signaling he has been anointed as next leader of the communist dynasty, a newspaper report said on Tuesday. Kim, 67, is thought to have suffered a stroke in August. Analysts have said the North's recent military actions, including a nuclear test last week, may be aimed at helping him solidify power so that he can name a successor. "It has been confirmed through various channels that North Korea sent emails to legations overseas, asking them to pledge their loyalty...