Only Beautiful, Please summary

Exploring the Enigma of North Korea

In Only Beautiful, Please, John Everard, a former British ambassador to North Korea, offers a unique perspective on the Hermit Kingdom. He begins by sharing his initial fascination with the country, acknowledging the allure of its mystery and the difficulty in accessing accurate information about it. Everard's narrative is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different aspect of North Korean society.

In the first part, Everard delves into the regime's cult of personality, emphasizing the omnipresent influence of the Kim dynasty. He describes the grandiose monuments, the elaborate celebrations, and the stringent propaganda that enshrine the supreme leadership. Yet, he also highlights the subtle signs of dissent and disillusionment that exist beneath the surface, providing a nuanced understanding of North Korean society.

Life in the Hermit Kingdom

In the second part, Everard shifts his focus to the daily lives of ordinary North Koreans. He describes the pervasive poverty, the constant food shortages, and the strict surveillance that characterizes their existence. Despite these hardships, he portrays the people as resilient and resourceful, finding joy in simple pleasures and maintaining a strong sense of national pride. Everard also highlights the stark contrast between the privileged elite and the marginalized majority, shedding light on the country's severe social inequality.

Everard's account then takes a more personal turn as he shares his experiences of living in North Korea as a foreigner. He recounts the challenges of navigating the country's strict regulations and the constant surveillance he was under. However, he also recalls moments of genuine connection with the locals, emphasizing the warmth and hospitality he encountered despite the official hostility towards outsiders.

The Nuclear Conundrum

In the final part of Only Beautiful, Please, Everard addresses the issue that has come to define North Korea in the international arena - its nuclear program. He provides a detailed analysis of the country's nuclear ambitions, tracing their origins and examining the various failed attempts to curb them. Everard's insights are particularly valuable given his firsthand experience of the North Korean leadership and his understanding of their motivations.

Despite the grim outlook, Everard ends his narrative on a note of cautious optimism. He believes that change is possible in North Korea, but it will require a nuanced and patient approach that takes into account the complexities of the regime, the aspirations of its people, and the strategic interests of the international community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Only Beautiful, Please offers a rare and insightful glimpse into the enigmatic world of North Korea. Everard's account is not only a critique of the regime's authoritarianism and human rights abuses but also an empathetic portrayal of its people's resilience and spirit. By presenting a balanced perspective, he urges us to move beyond simplistic narratives and engage with the complexities of North Korea in our quest for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.