When North Korea launched a carrier rocket carrying a reconnaissance satellite in 2023, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un praised the great achievement of “our republic.”
On the other hand, when Korea launched the third Nuri rocket, President Yoon Seok-yeol welcomed it, saying, “Our country” had joined the ranks of space powers.
Unlike “our republic,” the expression “our country” refers to the Korean people and their ancient territory rather than a specific political or constitutional community.
The Japanese word “wagakuni” is a similar word.

The President's remarks did not surprise me.
In Korea, all wrongdoings, such as disasters or human rights violations, are always blamed on the state, while all successes and proud achievements are unconditionally attributed to the people.


This book is my attempt to explain why this lack of national spirit threatens Korea's security and hinders its development.
Some readers may think it is inappropriate for an American, especially one who majored in North Korean studies, to discuss modern South Korean history.
I am well aware that I have many shortcomings.
Still, I hope this book can raise some awareness about this issue, which neither side in Korea's political arena seems to care about.