This dictionary is a ready-reference source of historical information on North Korea from the 1800s to the present. The closest book of its kind is Ilpyong Kim's The Historical Dictionary of North Korea (CH, Oct'03, 41-0695); however, this new dictionary's preface indicates that it is not a second edition of Kim's book, but rather a new work. Hoare, as a research analyst, studied North Korea from outside while serving in the British Foreign Service for 33 years. Then in 2001 he served as the first British representative to Pyongyang, garnering firsthand knowledge of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). This dictionary features issue-driven entries on topics including the DPRK's nuclear program and missile weapons, the Sunshine Policy and other foreign policy issues, important domestic political leaders and statesmen, major organizations, and important events. The dictionary entries feature helpful cross-references that are particularly useful because the Romanization of Korean names can vary, and tends to follow personal preferences. For example, without the help of a see also reference, a Western reader might easily miss the fact that Rim Su Gyong is the same name as Lim Soo-Kyung. This book serves as an excellent starting point for students, researchers, and others wanting to learn more about the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Summing Up: Highly recommended. Lower-level undergraduates through faculty/researchers; general readers. .