N.Korea 'to Get $32.3 Billion After Kim Jong-il Dies'

The international community could spend US$32.3 billion over 10 years to aid North Korea after the death of Kim Jong-il, researchers claim.

According to a paper by Cho Young-key, a professor of North Korea studies at Korea University, for the Korea International Trade Association, international financial bodies and related countries are expected to provide North Korea with financial support of up to $18.8 billion if the North stays more or less the same following Kim's death.

However, if Pyongyang improves relations with the international community, the amount is expected to rise to $38 billion.

The figure of $32.3 billion was calculated given the report's prediction that the North Korean regime is likely to remain the same for the first five years rather than improve drastically.