Kim Jong-il’s right-hand man, the second-in-command who holds North Korea’s economy in his grasp. That was the public’s assessment of Jang Seong-taek.
“Boss Kim, please mind your words.”
Jang Seong-taek spoke in a stiff tone. Wen Jiabao also shook his head.
“Second-in-command...?”
“That is how it is known in South Korea.”
He might face checks, but with China’s backing and Kim Jong-il’s trust behind him, it was undeniable that Jang Seong-taek was the real power among powers. Jang Seong-taek let out a deep sigh, as if trying to suppress his displeasure.
“In any case, please refrain from speaking so directly. Such words could push me into a crisis.”
“I understand. It seems the conversation is straying. At any rate, concealing secret funds is something I cannot do.”
With that refusal, showing not an inch of compromise, my eyes and Jang Seong-taek’s met and clashed in the air. In the end, uncomfortable with the growing weight in the reception room, Wen Jiabao stepped forward.
“Boss Kim, then please introduce us to a capable broker. Wouldn’t that be a reasonable compromise?”
“Vice Premier, such a thing...”
“The world is vast, and there are many brokers who do not have to mind the United States’ gaze. However, the difficulty for Director Jang is that among so many people, there is no one he can truly trust.”