David, I have been to the orient many times and have vast experience in sourcing for one of the world's largest companies. North Korea has unbelievable quality, you don't see it because so many countries ban the importation of NK products, so to get around this they do what is called trans shipping, it is illegal but a common practice, they forward the product to another countries port and and that is where the paper work showing the origin of product is by corrupt officials who are getting paid under the table.
And sadly it is true that people who repeatedly screw up/or don't support the "great leader" are put to death. Most workers are already typed by the govt and when they are executed, their organs wind up in Hong Kong going into wealthy middle easterners, Europeans and yes, Americans. Everyone over their knows it going on and turns a blind eye. NK has one of the worst human rights records in history. Next time you see a top of the line North Face jacket, better think in the label is the correct place of origin, it isn't just clothing, they have the best german and Japanese machining equipment. They can hold the tolerances to make a nuclear weapon. Too many people have under estimated their capabilities already. Vietnam is going to emerge just like China has in the next few years, they are becoming a manufacturing powerhouse, a shift in production is already occurring to Vietnam. Most factories use European management, as well as Aussies, I've seen a lot of Belgians there. You need to do a little rescreach before you pop off on something that you more than likely never experienced.
opcorn:
I had a 361 jug off this week, for a stripped plug hole, had the same castings and one port edge that wasn't beveled. As long as the plating stays attached and no rings catch, I'll continue to buy Stihl OPE.
