A Kim Jong-Il Production

The Incredible True Story of North Korea and the Most Audacious Kidnapping in History

By: Paul Fischer

Narrated by: Stephen Park

Penguin presents the unabridged, downloadable, audiobook edition of A Kim Jong-Il Production, by Paul Fischer, read by Stephen Park.

Before becoming the world's most notorious dictator, Kim Jong-Il ran North Korea's film industry. He directed every film made in the country but knew they were nothing compared to Hollywood. Then he hit on the perfect solution: order the kidnapping of South Korea's most famous actress and her ex-husband, the country's most acclaimed director.

In a jaw-dropping mission the couple were kidnapped, held hostage and then 'employed' to make films for the Dear Leader, including a remake of Godzilla. They gained Kim's trust - but could they escape?

Critic reviews

Captivatingly tells perhaps the most extraordinary tale from the world's most bizarre country. That a North Korean dictator should kidnap two South Korean movie stars and force them to make films he hoped would rival Hollywood seems the stuff of fantasy . . . Flabbergasting (Paul French, author of international bestseller 'Midnight in Peking')

A true story of desperate movie stars, daring escapes, and the paranoid leader who brought it all together. Equal parts history, thriller, and farce . . . will keep you engrossed until the very end (Matt Baglio, co-author of 'New York Times' bestseller Argo)

Amazing story - very interesting

The story is very unique and gives a good idea/ view of how North C is operating. Besides that it’s well written (and seems documented) and extremely interesting. I strongly recommend it.

scary but entertaining

very interesting story but a bit curious how the father never new about the illegitimate eldest son when the embassies knew to send gifts? perhaps the father knew but just ignored it? after all he had no more successors perhaps. I wish there's some true account on how dear leader felt when those 2 betrayed him? what about the others? story seems pretty confident on what happened to many others but those directly involved with our 2 main characters. a pity in that sense.

Absolutely fascinating!

Brilliantly written and even more brilliantly narrated. Intriguing, suspenseful, edge-of-the-seat, and depressing and sad all at the same time. A roller coaster of a story.

Fascinating

What did you love best about A Kim Jong-Il Production?

The insight into North Korea

What was one of the most memorable moments of A Kim Jong-Il Production?

The dash for freedom in Vienna

Which character – as performed by Stephen Park – was your favorite?

Choi

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes

Any additional comments?

Enhanced by the unobtrusive but expert reading