It is easy for outsiders to demonize Kim Jong Il, a dictator who spends an estimated 25 percent, or more, of his country's GNP on the military while many in his country go hungry. But in North Korea, closed off from outside influences, fearful of threats from its neighbors, and subjected to decades of political socialization on top of a long tradition of a strict hierarchical system, Kim Jong Il is viewed positively by most people, said Han S. Park of the Center for Study of Global Issues. He is regarded by many as not only a superior leader but a decent person, a man of high morality. Whether that's accurate is not important if you want to deal with North Korea. You have to understand their belief system.
Perception is reality.
All Rights Reserved. Terms under which this service is provided to you. Read our privacy guidelines . Chat CNN's Mike Chinoy looks at the background of North Korean Leader Kim Jong Il. 28K 80K Windows Media 28K 80K Seoul Bureau Chief Sohn Jie-Ae looks at South Korea's reaction to Kim Jong Il's visit to China.