North Korea and Myanmar (Burma) are Asia's most mysterious, tragic stories. They were the region's most militarized and repressed societies, sitting out the greatest wealth creation project in the history of the world, one that created a belt of middle classes, comfort and security from Singapore to Japan. How did Myanmar find its way out of this isolation? Why does North Korea remain stuck?

North Korea and Myanmar (Burma) are Asia's most mysterious, tragic stories. For decades they were infamous as the region's most militarized and repressed societies, self-isolated and under sanctions by the international community while, from Singapore to Japan, the rest of Asia saw historic wealth creation and growing middle class security. For Burma, the threat was internal: insurgent factions clashed with the government and each other. For North Korea, it was external: a hostile superpower--the United States--and a far more successful rival state--South Korea--occupying half of the Korean peninsula. Over time, Myanmar defeated its enemies, giving it space to explore a form of democratization and openness that has led to reintegration into international society. Meanwhile, North Korea's regime believes its nuclear arsenal--the primary reason for their pariah status--is vital to survival.