Question

How did the history of North Korea during the 20th century helped lead to its economic and social problems today?

A:North Korea refused to trade with other countries, leading to few goods and services.
B:North Korea suffered from earthquakes, leading to the destruction of cities.
C:North Korea experienced enormous immigration, leading to disease and poverty.
D:North Korea became a communist nation, leading to military overspending.

Answer 1

The historical trajectory of North Korea, marked by rigid communist policies, economic isolation, and loss of Soviet support, coupled with military overspending and devastating famines, has led to ongoing economic and social difficulties.

D is correct

Step-by-step explanation:

The history of North Korea in the 20th century led to its current economic and social problems due to a combination of communist policies, economic isolation, loss of financial support from the Soviet Union, military overspending, and a series of systemic issues following the death of its leader, Kim Il Sung. The fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 resulted in the loss of crucial oil and financial aid which caused factory closures and rising unemployment rates. In addition, the famines of the 1990s led to widespread starvation and thousands of deaths.

North Korea's commitment to maintaining one of the world's largest militaries consumed resources that could have been used for development. Meanwhile, South Korea focused on increasing agricultural productivity through investments in education and technology, and by receiving aid from allies like the United States, laying the groundwork for substantial economic growth and a vibrant, free-market economy that starkly contrasts with the North's stagnant growth and inflexible economic system.