Like the rest of the world, the death of Kim Jong-Il caught south Korean-born Woo Lee by surprise.
"Everybody is cautious. What's going to happen now?" Lee said.
That's the big question, as the world watches closely what North Korea's next move will be. In an abrupt leadership change, the North Korean dictator's son, Kim Jong-Un, believed to be in his late 20s, was named his successor.
"I think this is good moment for change," Lee said.
Lee, who owns a store in Miami's fashion district on NW 5th Ave., is optimistic that the world will seize on this opportunity, and that he will one day reunite with his seven aunts and uncles in North Korea. He hopes they're still alive.
"We tried to contact with them with the Red Cross, my father did many times to meet but never accomplished. He finally died last year," Lee said.
Dr. Dustin Berna, an assistant professor of political science at Nova Southeastern University, has a different take.
"I don't suspect any good change to come from this... We have to be on guard and aware that something could happen," Berna said.
He's concerned about the regional stability in Asia and believes the younger Kim will maintain a strong grip over one of the world's biggest armies and press on with North Korea's nuclear weapons program. Meantime, South Korea remains on high alert. The Obama administration says it is watching how North Korea's army adapts to the newest leader.
"We reiterate our hope for improved relations with the people of North Korea and remain deeply concerned about their well-being," said Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
Lee's main concern is the well-being of his relatives in North Korea and hopes to be able to help them financially if he is ever given that chance.
