The man believed to be the power behind the leader of North Korea has been executed. Kim Jong-un's uncle, Chang Song-thaek, was arrested earlier this week for corruption, acts of treachery and womanizing. Reuters reported that North Korea stated on Friday he was executed after being found guilty of treason. This was the largest upheaval since Mr. Kim replaced his father two years ago.

According to ABC News, the purge was designed by Kim Kyong-hee, Jang's wife, and his nephew. Lee Yun-keol, the president of North Korea Strategic Information Service Center, said, "[Jang's wife] openly expressed to the political bureau members that Jang's power line is a threat to the royal family, so she took an obvious choice." 

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Expert observers believe that this move is significant in signaling the beginning of a generational change of power. Kim is still a young leader and has not yet gained the complete confidence of his nation. The BBC reported that this demonstrates Kim Jong-un's authority and his assertion of independence. 

The purge has South Korean leaders feeling uneasy. President Park Geun-hye believes that this "reign of terror" is an attempt to help reinforce Kim's position. This demonstration also leads her to believe that the now volatile relationship between the two countries will only grow more unstable. 

Contact Executive Producer Kaysie Ellingson here.