North Korea, International Law and the Dual Crises

Professor Tan's research is impressive, given the dearth, if not inaccessibility, of even basic information from such a hermetically closed system...Professor Tan's book offer[s] a wealth of informa...tion and analysis of the world's sovereign outlier...with a straightforward exposition and analysis...His command of the governing international law is clear, as is his ability to marshal cogent facts and political insights...Along with his other writings and public appearances, [the book] clearly establishes his credentials as a well-informed critic of an opaque and puzzling country whose deliberate isolation greatly inhibits useful research of the sort he has admirably undertaken. As a legal scholar, Professor Tan is truly a pioneer. James A.R. Nafziger, Thomas B. Stoel Professor of Law, Director of International Programs, Wilammette University College of Law Prof. Tan has written a thoroughly documented treatment of the North Korean situation in all of its many dimensions. This is the most comprehensive scholarly book on the subject now and Prof. Tan undoubtedly will gain considerable exposure and prominence... in both the legal and political science academies and in diplomatic and media circles once the book is published...I have to honestly conclude that Prof. Tan covered all of the bases. In fact, I kept anticipating my criticism of his text by wondering whether he would include one point or another, and then within pages he did so. That was extremely pleasing to see him accomplish time and again throughout the text...I looked through the relevant endnotes as well and found them quite impressive...This is a very readable book and it will lead to numerous high-profile opportunities for Prof. Tan, including Congressional testimony and interaction with the United Nations. I strongly endorse the value of its scholarship, its sourcing, and its role in building the foundation... David Scheffer, Mayer Brown/Robert A. Helman Professor, Director of the Center for International Human Rights, Northwestern University School of Law, and the 1st War Crimes Ambassador in U.S. history