Kim Jong-un under threat from plan to replace North Korea with ‘near-perfect democracy’ | World | News

A virtual nation named Joseon is posing a unique threat to North Korea‘s longstanding regime by establishing a « near-perfect democracy » with no taxes. This so-called « cybernation », a digital recreation of the historic Korean kingdom that unified the North and South in the late 19th century, gained international recognition in June when Antigua established diplomatic ties.

Led by King Andrew Lee, a distant relative of Joseon’s royal family, this digital society operates as a « true meritocracy, » using blockchain technology to distribute wealth based on merit. In stark contrast to North Korea’s isolationist policies, Joseon has experienced zero crime since its inception, does not impose taxes, and allows free membership for those who can verify their identity.

Despite North Korea’s dictator, Kim Jong-un, potentially feeling threatened by this digital democracy, Joseon’s white paper explicitly disclaims any territorial claims on the Korean Peninsula and expresses a desire for friendly relations.

King Lee envisions a future where everyone becomes a Denizen (citizen) of Joseon to enjoy its numerous benefits, emphasising a departure from the traditional nation-state model.

King Lee, also known as His Imperial Highness, underscores the goal of creating a borderless world using blockchain, stressing the elimination of borders to foster unity among people. He believes that a cybernation structured around individuals rather than nation-states can usher in a new world order.

Contrary to traditional monarchies, King Lee asserts that if a monarch exists in Joseon, it is blockchain itself, as it empowers the people rather than holding power over them. His pursuit of creating Joseon began in 2018 after selling his firm London Trust Media, providing the financial means to focus on this ambitious project.

With over 1,000 individuals already signed up as Denizens, Joseon operates on transparency facilitated by blockchain technology.

Participants can buy, sell, and transfer assets freely, with collective ownership encouraged through tokenisation. This unique approach allows for more liquid and transparent trading, offering freedom to invest without concerns about financial malfeasance.

In addition to providing financial freedom, King Lee aims to spread wealth through the Ministry of Patronage, led by academic Laura Jeon. The government of Joseon envisions holding votes on distributing its currency, Joseon Mun, to Denizens for growth initiatives. This democratic process, enabled by blockchain’s unalterable smart contract system, sets Joseon apart in its commitment to transparent governance and wealth distribution.

While the realisation of these goals may not happen overnight, King Lee is optimistic that, as awareness grows, people will flock to Joseon, drawn by the promise of a novel and inclusive digital society.