One of the most interesting topics in North Korean studies is the change of its system, particularly the party-state system. North Korea adopted the Soviet model for its political system when it was liberated from the Japanese rule. The Soviet party-state system is characterized by a ministerial system. The state structure, separated from the party structure, was organized from the top cabinet to the bottom local governments Although the party firmly controlled the state at the top, the party's control over the adminsitration was getting weaker as it goes down to a lower level. For example, Krei executive committee received directions and supervisions from Oblast executive committee rather than party committee in the same Krei.
However, North Korea adopted Chinese model of party-state system in 1960s, which was characterized by a strong party committee at each local level. An executive committee was controlled by party committee of the same district, while the control of the executive committee of the higher level was only nominal.
Since 1998, when North Korea amended its Constitution, North Korea has tried to change its party-state system by enhancing the autonomy and prestige of the administration. For example, economy-related departments of the party's central committee disappeared, while the number of industrial departments in the cabinet has increased. However, North Korea's attempt is still far from the Chinese style of the separation of the administration from the party.