In this conversation with prominent blogger Ask A Korean, we unpack the spy-ops and psy-ops that have informed more than a decade of alt-Right agitation in South Korea.  Plus: a look into the anti-democratic overreach of the National Intelligence Service and a deep dive into the origins of Ilbe, Korea’s nihilistic proto-Reddit web forum and 4chan and Breitbart predecessor. And, an analysis of the diminished status of South Korea’s political right-wing today.  Also, three fundamental questions that establish first principles when talking about North Korea: May the North Korean state continue to exist? May the Kim Jong-un regime remain in power? And is war acceptable on the Korean peninsula? Ask A Korean’s answer to all three questions is an emphatic ‘No’.  This conversation was recorded on January 28th, 2018. Music on this episode is ??? with '?? ???'. Help support and sustain this podcast at patreon.com/thekoreafile and receive access to exclusive interviews and bonus content!