News analysis

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's charm offensive pays off at Singapore summit

Kim secured concessions from US, legitimised country as normal state, softened his image

President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un strolling through the grounds of the Capella Singapore after their working lunch. Mr Kim's image has changed since he came out to the world. The positive vibe was keenly felt during the summi
President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un strolling through the grounds of the Capella Singapore after their working lunch. Mr Kim's image has changed since he came out to the world. The positive vibe was keenly felt during the summit as Mr Kim flashed his pearlies, listened intently to Mr Trump, and promised "major changes" ahead. ST PHOTO: KEVIN LIM
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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had every reason to grin from ear to ear when he was in Singapore given the way experts and media hailed him the "winner" at the summit with United States President Donald Trump.

The Chairman of the State Affairs Commission gave away nothing new but got Mr Trump's signature in an agreement promising US security guarantees and new bilateral ties.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Sunday Times on June 17, 2018, with the headline North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's charm offensive pays off at Singapore summit. Subscribe