Book on “North Korea: Never Ending Tragedy” launched at Institute of Business Management

KARACHI: The Institute of Business Management (IoBM) hosted the launch of “North Korea – Never Ending Tragedy”, authored by Ambassador Syed Hasan Habib, former Ambassador of Pakistan to North Korea, Ambassador Habib is currently serving as a Senior Fellow at IoBM and also Co-Chairman Pakistan Council on Foreign Relations (PCFR). The event was attended by IoBM’s senior leadership, with participation from representatives of the Thai Consulate and the PCFR members
In his remarks, Mr. Talib Karim, President IoBM, highlighted that the Institute has significantly benefited from engaging former ambassadors. He shared that nearly ten books across diverse genres have been published over the past eighteen months with IoBM’s support, adding that students have gained valuable insights from ambassadors contributing to teaching at the Institute.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador G. R. Baluch, Director at IoBM’s Global and Regional Studies Center (GRSC), commended Ambassador Habib for his courage in undertaking this work. Reflecting on the author’s experience, he described it as emotionally and morally challenging, noting that the book goes beyond a scholarly exercise and encourages deeper reflection.
Prof. Dr. Tanweer Khalid, Secretary General of the Pakistan Institute of International Affairs, remarked that the book offers a valuable contribution by tracing North Korea’s evolution from ancient to modern times. She noted that it examines the country’s isolationist policies, with each chapter focusing on a distinct theme.
Ambassador Alam Brohi observed that diplomatic assignments such as Sudan and North Korea are considered challenging within the Foreign Service of Pakistan due to social isolation and limited facilities. He noted that the author has vividly captured these realities and praised his resilience, both during his service and in his continued academic contributions.
Prof. Dr. Riaz Ahmed Shaikh, Dean, Social Sciences & Education Department, SZABIST, described the book as a concise account of North Korea’s history. He commended IoBM for publishing the work and highlighted its relevance in understanding the country’s geopolitical trajectory.
Ambassador Syed Hasan Habib stated that the book is grounded in credible sources and driven by a commitment to present the truth, particularly for students. He added that it explores North Korea’s nuclear developments, international sanctions, and the realities of life in a tightly controlled state shaped by surveillance and cyber operations.