#commieburger

Definitely different from what I normally do, but sometimes I find songs that just fit the characters or a group of them too well and want to share. Plus, music is often how I generate writing ideas.

CW: mentions of the Korean War, mentions of the Japanese Occupation, some angst

I didn’t do the platonic trio of America, South Korea, and North Korea (I’ve seen the term DMZ trio float around as a potential group name, and I like the idea of these three in a platonic group), mostly because I was having a hard time deciding what songs fit the trio.

(Platonic) South Korea + North Korea:

“We’re Gonna Find It” - From Barbie and the Diamond Castle

I feel this fits these two pre-Korean War, since they always relied on each other through thick and thin throughout history together. As long as they had each other, they believed they could reach any goal they set their minds to and would be happy, regardless of circumstances. They’ll find their happy ending together.

“Two Voices, One Song” - Also from Barbie and the Diamond Castle

This is kind of fitting for both pre- and post-Korean War, thought the tone would change drastically between the two.

Pre-Korean War it speaks to their unity as twins and how in-sync they are together, as well as the belief that they will always be together.

Post-Korean War it’s more hollow and sad with a twinge of hope, as these two do long for each other and to be reunified again, even when that hope is slowly dimmed due to politics. They both know each other has changed, but they believe deep down that they can still be like the old times if they can figure something out.

“Still Love You” - Lee Hong-Gi (alt. spelling: Lee Hong-Ki) and Yoo Hwe-Seung

Technically it’s a post-break up love song, but I view this from a platonic stand point. Post-Korean War, these two regret all the hurtful things they’ve said and done to each other, but realize that they’ve potentially crossed the point of no return for their relationship, despite still caring and loving their respective brother deeply. They realize they will forever feel the ghost of the other, their absence, and that cuts them deeper than any of the harsh words or stinging bullets ever did.

(Platonic) America + South Korea:

“My Buddy” - CREAM

These two became friends due to like minds and interests, and, no matter how far apart they are, the memories they share and make together are some of the best. Like, these two are the friends that could go for months without contacting each other and be able to pick back up with each other like it was nothing. They act like those people that have been friends since they were in diapers and that friendship has never changed over the years.

(Platonic) Russia + North Korea:

“Through Hell” - Citizen Soldier ft. Royal Bliss (honestly, Citizen Soldier has quickly become one of my all time favorite bands)

Again, it communicates the fact that they both have been through some dark history and emotional trauma. However, instead of developing love, they develop a deep platonic blond knowing that someone has been through hell, just like them, and truly understands their experiences, feelings, and thoughts. They know that, thanks to each other’s presence, friendship, and help, all of the mistakes, darkness they’ve seen, and trauma have made them who they are today, and they’ve found who they really are. In a way, they’ve become each other’s ride or die companion that will have their back come hell or high water.

(Couple) Kimchiburger (America x South Korea):

“Heaven” - Ailee

I can see this coming from SK’s POV, especially after the Korean War, and it expresses the deeper emotional bond that he develops towards America when he’s at his lowest point, beyond his initial crush phase.

“Here’s to Never Growing Up” - Avril Lavigne

These two are the chaotic couple that will get up to all the shenanigans and have mad puppy love for each other, while not caring at all about what others say.

“My Everything” - 98 Degrees

I’ve talked about it before how these two are super supportive of each other due to their insecurities in their reputations and general confidence. I think this embodies that aspect, plus the aspect that these two found love in each other when they were at pretty low points in their life, at a crossroads, or at a pivotal moment in their respective lives. For SK, his feelings solidified after the Korean War when America was 100% willing to be there to lend an ear or hand. For America, SK became the one who was there to keep him going and remind him that someone does genuinely love him for him when all of a sudden he became a top superpower after WWII (mostly cause nearly everyone else were borderline destroyed in terms of infrastructure and he got lucky cause his home wasn’t a battle ground) and during the stresses of the Cold War.

(Couple) RusNK (Russia x North Korea):

“Love in the Ice” - TVXQ (also go by DBSK)

These two have hardened their hearts to the world, Russia from his general isolation from nearly everyone at all levels (some of which were definitely his fault) and North Korea from losing his brother, the one person he trusted and loved the most, causing himself to spiral downwards. Yet, they do develop a love for each other, possibly due to understanding each other’s pain. Their relationship is a struggle because they want to heal each other, but their own hearts and minds are just as frozen, so they struggle to accept that they mutually love each other, and that this love is quite fierce if they let it go uncontrolled. Once they do accept their feelings, these two cling to each other for emotional support and show their true selves that nearly no one else would ever see.

Like, they first meet with the expectation of a political duty, but then they quickly realize as they let their guards down around each other that they are catching feelings. But they are super hesitant to move forwards because of the emotional trauma.

Excerpt translated into English:

            “Alone in the end of time (my heart)

             Don’t be afraid because you were left alone (Don’t be afraid)

             Till the end of time (Let you know my love)

             I’ll protect you, you know because I love you (You know, let you know                   my love)

I think I may have put this with Kimchiburger in an earlier post, but after listening to it again a few years later, it definitely fits these two more.

“Love Me Like You Do” - Ellie Goulding

This speaks to their hesitation at making their relationship official, and their general slowness to accept they caught feelings and eventually acting on them. Like, they realize the small spark that started between them, and it quickly developed into a series of sparks, like someone furiously trying to light a fire. But it took a moment before NK decided to act on the emotions first with a kiss and trying to subtly ask Russia out to dinner while trying to not be too obvious. He is wary of getting his hopes up and letting himself be that vulnerable again. Then Russia is the one to make their relationship official and take the leap, because he is finally sick of waiting when it becomes clear that they both feel the same way and they want to freely love each other.

“How Do You Love Someone” - Porcelain Black (some may know this from Ashley Tisdale’s version)

While “Love in the Ice” reflected some of the trauma and hesitancy in their relationship with a more positive outcome/attitude, this song is far more angsty. This song, I believe, has the heavier focus on the tragedies and darker history each have had that has caused them to become almost emotionally numb to nearly everything. So when they are confronted with the fact that something was building between the two of them, part of their minds was absolutely terrified because they felt they didn’t know how to love, or that they couldn’t allow themselves to love someone for fear of betrayal, being used, lack of reciprocation, and just being that vulnerable and at the mercy of someone else. Especially the last one, since both have experienced the worst case scenario (Russia under Mongol Rule and NK under Japanese occupation). Not to mention the conflict with their political situation at the time causing more problems, like NK fully understood what his position was when the USSR began aiding him and how he balanced his relations with both China and the USSR.

(Couple) Commieburger (America x North Korea):

“Eternal Snow” - originally from the anime Full Moon wo Sagashite (cover I’m thinking of is by AmaLee)

I can see this as representing the in-between period before these two got together and the both of them grappling with their conflicting feelings for each other. Like, they’re realizing they are in love with each other but are conflicted about if they should be feeling that way, since they are supposed to be enemies. Part of them thinks it is just a passing thought, a little crush that will quickly fade, but another part realizes it stubbornly won’t go away and that they are starting to miss each other’s company. These feelings are borderline painful for them.

“Unconditionally” - Katy Perry (I’m more thinking of the Ryan Jirovec cover)

More from America’s POV. As he finds out more and more about Sang-Kyu himself, he is falling more and more head over heels. He wants NK to open up more to him, not just because of politics, but because he wants Sang-Kyu to blossom as a person, to become more confident in himself and trusting. I can imagine when America more or less accidentally admits to NK that he loves him, that NK would question America as to why he would love him of all people, after all the things he has pulled. And America just says that he has come to love him in spite of all of that, that his love is unconditional.

“Let You Love Me” - Rita Ora

You know how when a person is close enough to another person that they pick up little traits or 'ticks' of the other person IE [phrases, habits, small movements, etc.] What would those be like for the ships, and does their partner notice?

I feel like I've answered this before, but I would like to expand upon it.

I also got inspiration from @circlique's fanfic "Healing Old Wounds", the first fic that got me hooked on America/North Korea. Some of the SK and NK's ticks mentioned here come from this fic.

Kimchiburger:

SK tends to stir his drink, swirl his glass, or run his finger along the rim whenever he is lost in thought, and the speed and intensity at which he does so tends to give away his feelings if he isn't already speaking. For instance, if he is particularly angry about something, the intensity is far more violent and quite fast, causing spillage or even the glass to topple over if he's particularly angry. When's he particularly sad, depressed, or lost in bitter-sweet memories, he tends to half-heartedly push his straw with his finger tip or very slowly run his finger along the rim of the glass. America tends to use it as a gauge to figure out or understand a problem the other is having, though he often has to stop the other if he gets particularly too violent or causes a mess.

Likewise, America uses "I'm the hero" or any variation of it more as a way to hold himself to a standard or to comfort himself. For instance, his tone tends to give away what he's actually feeling when he says any of those lines, such as failing to cover up his despair or uncertainty over a situation or his intentions or anger at himself for failing to be a good person when it was needed the most. He tends to be a pretty good actor and covers up his feelings rather well, so SK has to be extra vigilant and know when America is acting rather than being honest. Most often SK will get pushy with his words in order to try and discern if America is actually alright or not. He's very diplomatic and charismatic when it comes to talking, so once he gets America to admit what is wrong or what he's actually thinking he is very good at pep-talking and easing America's fears. Having that earnest support is what made America fall in love with him in the first place.

RusNK:

Russia unconsciously hides his mouth and chin in his scarf when he's shy or sheepish mostly out of habit since the scarf was much too big for him when he first got it as a child from Ukraine, so he couldn't help it then. Now, it's sort of a comfort and familiar feeling to do so. NK finds it endearing when it happens, since Russia often does this when he's trying to express his love for NK in sincere words rather than through pet names or physical means, or from embarrassment at having to explain something, typically some sort of romantic saying or term of endearment in his language.

When Russia gets really into a book, he often makes noises or talks as reactions to what is going on in the story. Something shocking happens? He lets out a quiet gasp and maybe a quiet "no way". Character does something stupid? You bet he is making quiet remarks under his breath. NK sometimes gets annoyed by it if he is also trying to read or focusing and needs quiet, but often he just finds it adorable that Russia ends up in his own little world. If it's a book both of them have read he sometimes uses Russia's reactions to further his own understanding of what happened, as sometimes he doesn't quite grasp the gravity of what was said or done sometimes in a book unless he has Russia's input. This often happens with Russian books compared to his own, as he there are some finite language barriers that hinder his full appreciation abilities.

NK has the habit of not looking into people's eyes even more so than what is culturally normal for him. He rarely does look eye-to-eye unless he is being particularly serious or is raring to fight/argue. Usually it serves as an indication that he is being pushed to his limits over something, whether his patience or temperament. Russia is always taken aback when it does happen, usually because NK is actually not as confrontational as a person compared to when he has to be a nation so it becomes quite jarring. The fierceness in the Korean's eyes and the subsequent emotional outburst tend to shake him more than he would like to admit, since the other is more subdued and controlled when it comes to emotions. He also mentally has to back track to see if he did or said something that warranted this reaction. More often than not it usually is NK being more affectionate or trying to reinforce and clearly communicate his loyalty and love for him (since he figures eye contact is more common in Russian culture and wants to make an effort), but there are a few times when Russia unintentionally angers him and NK uses it as a way to put Russia in his place. Typically it's when NK is not in the mood for being all touchy-feely and has to give a sharp reminder to Russia when he doesn't listen.

A more unconscious habit he does is nuzzling in his sleep. When Russia wakes up before NK, he likes to watch him sleep as his own mind wakes up. There's just something, in Russia's mind, that is precious and calming about watching over his boyfriend. Russia moves around a lot when he sleeps, so they very loosely cuddle, like holding an arm, so that NK doesn't get squished or constantly woken up. When NK is still fast asleep, it's like his body gravitates to the nearest heat source and wants to nestle. A lot of times NK, while still asleep, will shift closer to Russia and nuzzle his face into Russia's neck, chest, or between the shoulders and let out a content puff of air before falling deeper into sleep again. Russia absolutely adores when NK does that and keeps the knowledge of this habit to himself rather than tell NK that he does this. There's something so sweet about seeing NK be openly affectionate compared to his usual that makes Russia's heart melt.

Commieburger:

Because these two go from really bad to being somewhat decent with communication between each other as their relationship progresses, they had to rely a lot more on catching the smaller ticks and traits of each other to get a better understanding of the other's feelings and thoughts.

For instance, NK picks up on the ever so slight changes in America's laugh depending on the emotion America is trying to cover up or project at the time. America's true laugh has a snort or two in there, and is relatively moderate in volume. When he uses his laugh as a defense mechanism against other people's words or to specifically dig at someone, you hear his usual laugh at meetings only much louder. When he's nervous or sheepish, the laugh tends to trail off and be much more quiet. America knows full well what he's doing with his laugh, since that is a defense mechanism for himself that he's been doing for years, but he's more unaware at how easily NK was able to figure it out and catch on.

The Korean also figured out that the majority of the time America needs to make noise or fiddle with something as the blond can't stand silence (which becomes quite the problem and be a source of comedy since he likes his peace and quiet). One of the few ticks that actually mean something other than just idle fidgeting or noise making is the one where America drums his fingers repeatedly. Typically it means he is very lost in thought or heavily pondering over something that is bothering him. NK usually has to interrupt him otherwise the American will continue to stew and spiral deeper and deeper into his thoughts, causing massive overthinking or eventually becoming frustrated.

America also tends to push his glasses up further on his nose when he's focusing or getting serious about something (whether the situation itself is serious or not, like a particularly hard boss fight in a game or a serious discussion), as if he's trying to amplify his focus by pushing the glasses closer to his eyes. It's one of of America's more endearing traits, in NK's eyes, since it telegraphs very clearly what he's thinking and can be quite charming in the right situations. America also tends to take them off on occasion and rest his chin on the back of the same hand holding the glasses, usually when he's either getting drained or feeling nostalgic. NK is able to tell which it is simply based on the situation or if America lets out a sigh or not (typically meaning he's drained), and finds it sort of endearing since it is like America is allowing himself to stop putting on his act, whether simply because he doesn't have the energy to keep it up or because he's willingly doing so. It reminds him that they both are a lot more similar to each other, as he himself as had to learn to let his walls down. America most certainly doesn't realize he does this at all, and always gets confused when NK just gives a soft smile or can feel the endearment coming from him every time.

For America, catching the ever so slight, quick movements of NK's body tends to betray exactly what the other is thinking or wanting, or the slight pout tends to form only when NK isn't getting what he wants. He knows NK is much more reserved than others, especially since he's had to stamp down his own wants and desires for the sake of his government, so the tiny movements tend to represent the repressed emotions and desires while the quickness of them represent the Korean's tendency to hold back because he's been used to putting himself last for so long. America's had to learn to be much more observant around him so that he can catch these movements and pouts to supplement their communication skills and avoid unintended arguments. NK is only semi-conscious of his own ticks as far as the movement goes, kind of like his brain operates a second behind his body, but tends to not realize he is pouting until it gets pointed out. America thinks NK looks cute when he pouts and has learned to not point it out since NK gets super defensive if it is.

NK is prone to pushing his food around his plate when he's thinking or lost in thought, much like how SK pushes a straw around a drink or swirls his glass in thought. The intensity and roughness of how he pushes the food around tends to help indicate if he is getting frustrated, trying to word his thoughts carefully, or distracted. America has an easier time catching small ticks like that due to his experiences with SK, so it doesn't take him too long to realize their significance. North is fairly aware enough that he does this, but it's mostly because he's aware that he's thinking about something while the movement itself becomes more absentminded or simply due to habit of needing his fingers to be occupied with something.

Smooth Moves

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/44869930

Hetalia: Axis Powers

Rated M (CW: implied sexual content but not explicit)

Other Tags: Making Out, Kissing, Flirting, Awkward Flirting, Lots of Teasing

America/North Korea

After being in a relationship for some while, the stuff they say to eachother around other people start to have double or even triple meanings. Alfred doesn't quite realize it until he picks up the very slight difference in the way that North was yelling something at him, and he immediately understood that there actual meaning. Neither of them meant to do it, and no one has caught on yet, but it becomes the only way they can seem to communicate while around other nations.

Congrats on deciding to make your own OC! Just remember to do lots of research and, especially since this is N. Korea, you need to make sure you are not glorifying his government nor the human rights atrocities the country is doing. If you are looking for inspiration or need an example of how to go about that, I recommend looking at @circlique's OC of N. Korea, the same one I use for my headcannons. You can find the dedicated blog for N. Korea under ask-north-korea. I believe they do a very great job at building his character and answering questions through the OC's perspective while also being respectful of the people and culture and critical of the actual country's government and history. Always important to take as much time as you need!

For your idea, it reminds me a little of what I've done before in some of my fanfiction, as well as some of the writing by circlique on their AO3 account. Though, mostly both writings focus on keeping up the act of America and N. Korea hating each other. I do like the idea of some of the things they say to each other having a double or triple meaning, like some things they would say to a passerby may sound condescending or they are trying to rub salt in the wound, but between the two of them it is a subtle way of checking in on each other. Two ideas I got while reading your idea was one about America doing his own way of making sure NK is alright and subtly displaying his love and affection and NK very subtly consoling America, and they show their real meanings through very small physical movements or tonal shifts that they honestly didn't realize they ended up doing until much later.

America would be really cocky and essentially looks like he is mocking NK for his government not being able to feed his citizens adequately, but in reality the way he structured his words and changed tone ever so slightly indicated he was checking to make sure NK was eating properly and that he would make sure the other got something if he needed, maybe even discretely paying for delivery to NK's hotel room later if he couldn't be there with him. NK, likewise, especially after witnessing or hearing about America being called fat or someone being critical of America's health or diet, would sound like, to anyone else, he's mocking America for being so nosy about what other people do or say that he should learn to back off or that he deserves what people are saying about him, but the subtle way of how a finger or hand slightly reaches for America's and the way his tone indicates he's dialing back on his annoyance or meanness actually tells he's trying to comfort America and tell him don't take those words to heart and carry on being himself otherwise he's just going to get more depressed if he thinks about it for too long.

I think they eventually pick up on these slight changes and differences as they progress and date for longer, as they have more time to really analyze and see each other as people and figure out the little quirks each have. In the end, I think they take it as a way to develop themselves, too, such as America learning to be more tactful with his words and tone, as well as learning to not be as pushy and just learning the art of subtlety in general, while NK learns to dial back on his general mean sounding-ness and sarcasm/snark when he's trying to be nice and to be more open in private or when one-on-one.

Thinking back on one of my more popular stories on AO3, I got the idea of NK being more subtle with physical displays because, despite being so attention and touched deprived that any sort of attention he gets he will cling to whether it's good or bad, he is bad at initiating physical touch himself unless he's really passionate. He also doesn't communicate wants that clearly since he's not used to opening up that much and his brain is so used to suppressing his own wants and desires for the sake of putting everything and everyone else first that he has a hard time letting himself be free to act on his own desires and wants, so if he wants to cuddle or hold hands, his fingers or hand act just ever so slightly quicker than his brain, but his brain catches up before any full action is made, thus looking like a twitch or subtle hand shift. NK, if it is just America and him alone, is prone to pouting as well, though it mostly comes when he isn't getting what he wants and he himself doesn't realize he's doing it unless America pointed it out.

I've left a few excerpts from one of my stories to help kind of clarify what I'm talking about with the changes in how America and NK act around each other:

Doing a content warning here and at the start for sake of convenience:

CW: mentions of the Korean War, very vague mention of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, censored cuss words, mention of England and France's imperialistic and colonialism pasts, vague mention/insinuation of 20th century tragedies in East Asia and other historical events of East Asia

So, this will heavily depend on if it is in universe or in an AU where one can fiddle with family dynamics a bit. For those who just want the actual content, skip to the dotted line and read after it (content warning will be just above the dotted line), for I'm going to be discussing a little.

Personally, back when I first watched Hetalia (I think back in 2010 or 2011) I mostly based my experiences of what was popular in the fandom on Youtube videos, since I didn't go to Deviantart nor knew about Tumblr by that point. So, I did adopt, very early on, what I thought was popular for family groups, but I've since matured enough to be more nuanced about them. Ones like FACE I still subscribe to in a sense because of the historical content, but East Asia I no longer think of it in terms of early Hetalia fandom due to the intricacies and complexity that are the interpersonal relations throughout history. I view it more like, from an outsider's perspective, it looks like a big brother taking care of multiple siblings, but inside there are a lot of power dynamics and is like multiple games of chess in the form of politics and military flexing up until the 20th century, with lots of double meanings and this particular dynamic shines brighter when China is teaching.

Some of the East Asians may have viewed the dynamic closer to a kinship than others, but they all eventually became aware of the politics and what it meant to be a nation and their views on family is more complicated. For brevity sake I'm focusing on just the Koreas and will give some detail on the others when they are talked about. South Korea (keep in mind this is very early in both the Koreas' history when they were the chibi-equivalents), I think, was a little more naïve in the beginning simply because it was a dynamic he never experienced before and was more prone to taking things at face value prior to fully understanding what it means to be a nation and the politics of immortal relations, such as being taken in by China and living with him for a time was more than just out of the kindness of the Chinese man's heart. North Korea was a little more aware of the power dynamics and politics than his twin, but he lacked the experience and knowledge on how to deal with it at the time and was generally just more self-aware knowing there wasn't much he himself could do. NK did get closer to China on a more mentor level and calls him "brother" more out of respect than actually thinking of him as family. Basically anything dealings with Japan, with East Asia on a whole, barring one or two countries, is heavily politicized and less family gathering after the 20th century, while dealings with China can sometimes get politicized if the wrong topic comes up.

With that cleared up, it's time to delve into question at hand. And this going to be a long one. Also I finally figured out how to change font styles on here so I might have gone overboard with it with experimentation.

CW: mentions of the Korean War, very vague mention of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, censored cuss words, mention of England and France's imperialistic and colonialism pasts, vague mention/insinuation of 20th century tragedies in East Asia and other historical events of East Asia

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kimchiburger:

SK meeting FACE and subsequent family gatherings:

SK tends to be very quiet and shy if it is with people he has not been around a lot or knows well, especially early after his war with NK where he no longer has his twin to be there as emotional support. He vaguely knew England and France due to the UN and them sending troops as well to his country, as well as knowing what they did to most of Asia thanks to imperialism and colonialism, so he was very hesitant around them. He knows they are what America considers family, but that doesn't stop him from being very cautious regardless early on. Canada, on the other hand, he was pretty excited to see again, since he knew the quieter nation before even meeting America and hadn't seen him in a while.

France he got along with fairly well after the first initial awkwardness that was the context of he is now America's boyfriend with the American's family. France was a bit too touchy for his liking and made some rude comments from his cultural perspective, but the Frenchman never went too far and was pretty quick to correct mistakes if the other was offended, though was prone to unsolicited advice that embarrassed both himself and America. Canada hadn't changed much and was able to get SK out of his shell faster than the other two, as well as just provided general tips on how to handle America when he gets to be too much.

England was the rough one in the beginning, both personality wise and just because England kept giving him this "stink-eye" or highly judgmental look over every little thing he did or say. He later learned from France that England was just extremely protective over America, even after independence, and was just making sure that SK wasn't going to end up breaking the American's heart and was a good fit. He still didn't care for England's poor attitude most of the time along with his tsundere tendencies (he hated using Japan's word for it, but it was a pretty apt description and he lacked a better word for it). They did bond a bit more when he introduced his cooking to England, who was actually pretty receptive to it to America's shock. England had been used to India's cuisine so he wasn't too fazed by the spice, and both were shocked that they had some similar foods, such as Korean sundae and English black pudding. Although this was also the time when SK figured out England was not the greatest cook (but baking he was generally okay at, if a little rusty or needed some work considering not all of his scones would come out like hockey pucks).

Once SK got comfortable, these family gatherings became quite entertaining and SK often felt included or was part of the family at that point. France and him were prone to baking and sharing recipes a lot (I was inspired by those videos on Youtube of Korean street food and baking), England and him were more prone to quiet talks and tea (which was a welcome reprieve from some of the more neurotic family tendencies) unless England got into a rant over something, and Canada and him often were more boisterous than anyone thought they would be. Add America to that mix and it was always chaotic between the three of them. France figured out that letting the three of them compete in video games was the best way to make sure the North American nations and the Korean wouldn't end up destroying something or end up with the police knocking at their door. Though England got more and more flabbergasted once he realized just how similar both SK and America were, meaning double the headaches were going to happen.

I'm saving America's interactions with East Asia for after getting through RusNK, because they share the same event.

RusNK:

North Korea and the Kievan Rus Trio:

North Korea knew from Russia that he had two sisters and that Russia was the middle of the three. He vaguely got to know them through political meetings, but outside of politics he didn't know much considering he spent most of his time either at home, with China, or with Russia. So when Russia proposes that he gets to know his sisters personally one day, he just kind of rolled with it figuring that it couldn't hurt and might benefit political relations more if he did. He did not count on how... "interesting" the family gathering would be, for lack of a better word.

He thought Ukraine was quite a strong and dependable young woman, though a little too emotional at times. He could tell she became the substitute mother of the trio with how doting she was. A lot of the cooking for the family was actually done with everyone there and was a family tradition, so he learned quite a bit from her about the family traditions and that she was definitely the better cook out of them, though he wouldn't admit that to Russia. She was generally more welcoming and warm towards him, but he could tell she got nervous at times because she didn't want to end up offending him or Russia on accident, whether through fear of politics or simply because Russia can be quite intimidating when mad. NK learned some of the more embarrassing parts of her, such as when the story came up, from Ukraine herself, about how she tried to advise Russia on how to make friends ("show them your boobs" episode for anyone confused), and thus became slightly weirded out.

That weirded out feeling intensified when he finally got to know Belarus, especially with how attached she was to Russia. NK thinks Belarus didn't quite understand the meaning behind the "marrying" Russia, since he was told she had been doing that since she was fairly little, but he absolutely hated how Belarus would but in when he and Russia would get too close or cuddly. He had half a mind to tell her off about how he is Russia's boyfriend and he can do what he damn well pleases, but he knew better than to say stuff like that for it would more than likely come back around through politics and his boss would get mad at him for angering an ally. It seemed at some point Russia pulled Belarus aside and must have gave her a stern talking to, because part way through the first meeting she eventually let up on her antics. He was much more aware of the atmosphere around the trio, and came to the conclusion that, though this family is weird, they do care about each other and they are definitely not ones he should ever anger.

Future meetings are much more scarce, especially after the fall of the Soviet Union and tightening up of NK's own nation. Currently, though he only admits to himself and not aloud due to politics and current events, but he very much admires how strong, tenacious, and smart Ukraine is, and that is when he learns that she is probably the scariest of the trio when provoked. He somewhat wishes she wasn't so cold to him now, but that is thanks to politics and himself basically becoming the world's pariah and knows it is outside of his control. He finds he misses those winter nights when the trio and him would laugh and have dinner together or celebrate the trio's shared holidays, mostly because he himself would even forget the greater politics that dominate their lives and simply live as themselves and cherish the fond memories.

Kimchiubrger and RusNK:

America, Russia, and East Asia "family" gatherings:

SK had to explain a lot of the "family" dynamics to America because he was really hesitant at bringing America around them. Considering America has had numerous dealings with his neighbors, both good and bad, it wasn't like he was meeting them for the first time, but that meant there was so much more baggage to go through and this was in a context of introducing the boyfriend to the family. America semi-understood SK's explanations, considering how complex and intricate East Asia's relations with each other are and how much history played a part, but he at least knew how nervous SK was with this gathering more out of the political games that were bound to happen. Also, SK was not 100% sure if North Korea would be there, which would throw so many wrenches into the issue that he might as well have been in a hardware store.

Likewise, Russia was taught about the dynamics, and he himself was more understanding at the chess game that was East Asian relations. NK was fine bringing Russia around the other East Asians, especially China, but was very wary of if SK was going to show, since it was common for only one of them to be at these gatherings because they despised each other that much and it never ended well if both of them so happened to be there. Since he and SK never communicated about these meetings, it tended to fall to China to make sure neither were there at the same time, meaning he would invite each Korea every other gathering.

Well, both Koreas didn't expect the absolute worse case scenario: both show up with America and Russia to a gathering (with China's permission), AND China's boss got whiff of the gathering and told China he had to invite Japan as well for "political relations". So Japan being there was the badly made icing on this already disastrous cake from both Koreas' perspectives. They just hoped their respective boyfriend's understood to not embarrass them or cause a fight.

Thankfully, China was in a more "f!ck politics, get along of I'll make you" kind of mood and laid down the law very clearly and quickly. Hong Kong and, surprisingly, Taiwan were there, as well as Macau, so Russia and America got treated to the full extent of the chaos that can be when all of East Asia is in one room. Apparently the favorite pass time was ragging on China, much to China's chagrin. Particular favorite subjects to rile China up and poke fun of were his age and old man tendencies. Russia and America couldn't help but stay silent and look on in shock, wonder, and trepidation at how much sass and shade was being thrown around in teasing manners. They also were eyeing the wok and bamboo stick in the corner knowing just how dangerous China could be with them if he got out of hand.

Eventually, Japan got sassy and told China he was more than happy to take him to a nursing home after China made a comment about his age and forgot where he put a few of the drinks he bought for the occasion. This lead to America, before SK could stop him, saying how Japan shouldn't throw stones when he himself has a glass house since he's heard Japan complain multiple times about how he had a bad back and was getting to old for some of the antics he got wrapped up in. This gained him points with most of East Asia as many laughed at how true it was (even SK and NK had to try and stifle their laughs) while Japan was too shocked to speak until he made a vague threat towards America that he would get his revenge later without exactly divulging how he would do so. This lead to Russia making a comment about what might happen if both China and Japan were put into the same nursing home, which quickly spiraled into hypothetical discussions with lots of teasing. Both Koreas were really silent during most of the exchange, often either too occupied keeping an eye on their respective boyfriends or were too dumbfounded at how well America and Russia easily fitted themselves in.

At some point the topic of Mahjong comes up and America gets really interested in it. A snide comment from Russia about how real Mahjong is different from the one played on Microsoft computers sent both Koreas on edge, especially when America fires back that he knows they are different. Thankfully, America continued with asking to be taught how to actually play it and learn, to which the previous hostility evaporated when China had both he and Russia (since he knows Russia doesn't know sh!t about Mahjong himself) learn with him and Japan, with Macau serving as a guide for America and Russia for the first few games. China waved the Koreas away and told them to go help Taiwan and Hong Kong get the food ready in the other room, much to the hesitance of both Koreas. China definitely took the opportunity to not so subtly tell both America and Russia that he still cares for the twins, despite politics and history, and that if they themselves hurt the two in anyway shape or form he would be more than happy to murder them in their homes, politics and international relations be d!mned. First few seconds Russia and America didn't take the threat too seriously until they see that Japan didn't even bat an eye at the threat and remarked how much more tame China was being about it, then they realized he was serious and they were definitely more scared.

NK and SK were constantly peeking around the corner from the kitchen to check in on their boyfriends, often accidentally silently communicating with each other when one of them went to check. Taiwan found it absolutely adorable that they were that concerned, while Hong Kong rolled his eyes at how love clearly changed the twins far too much, even making a comment about how those two aren't themselves if they aren't actively adding to the chaos. NK, being more resistant to the teasing, usually made off-handed comments on how he was just making sure blood wasn't being spilt rather than out of actual concern, but everyone could see right through it.

It gave a moment for both Koreas to reflect on their respective twin's relationship with their boyfriends. SK noticed how, though not being the most PDA couple, NK and Russia had much more subtler ways of checking in on the other and showing affection, such as Russia occasionally holding NK's hand and rubbing small circles over the knuckles or NK leaning into the other and providing much more eye contact than he's seen the other do in a lifetime. Even the small smiles and stilted laughs coming from them during the night made SK start to soften on them. He may not approve of his brother's choice in partner (as he knows NK doesn't approve of America), but he could tell they truly cared about the other and was a little happy that Russia could get NK to smile and laugh more, since he can't be there to do it now. Likewise, NK, though absolutely despising America, slowly started accepting that he could tell SK was happy with him, from the way they easily shared laughs and smiles to how he could easily see the adoration in their eyes when they looked at each other. As much as he doubted and refused to trust America, he knew from their interactions that America was very much wearing his heart on his sleeve for his brother and was borderline willing to be the other's servant with constantly getting him anything he need during the night. He started accepting, despite his personal issues with America, that the American was kind of what he knew SK needed now that he himself couldn't be there to support the younger twin. If he were to ever make serious progress in mending his and SK's relationship on a personal level, he knew he had to start with easing up on the two of them, so he became less snippy and sarcastic with them later. It's a start, at least.

Commieburger:

This headcannon has to have the major asterisk of this is a "what if" scenario in normal universe since they are having to be super secretive about their relationship and may not reveal they are in one outside of the ones who need to know (SK and Canada) until super later in the relationship or when political improvements occur. With that said, this is a "what if" scenario of when East Asia and the rest of FACE learn of their relationship on the grounds that they are slowly letting it be known they are together:

East Asia Gathering:

The whole idea was partially pushed by South Korea, who by that point already knew of their relationship for a while now, with the excuse that it was only going to be a matter of time before they found out and it would probably be better if they were told rather than found out through something more scandalous. North and America were quite hesitant, especially with telling China and Japan considering their power and involvement in East Asia, but decided that they should know at some point so long as they are sworn to secrecy and partially agreed with SK's logic. Ideally, they would have liked to only tell China, and maybe Japan for security purposes, but it was not going to be easy for Hong Kong and Taiwan to not know since they all were in the same circles. SK was even willing to share black mail material in order to make sure the others wouldn't tell a soul about their relationship.

South Korea pushed China to have a family gathering and only having Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong join them, not really telling him about the fact that America and North Korea would be joining them. He had to make a deal with China that as long as he got them to go then he himself would take care of hosting and cooking, which was definitely going to be a chore and a half but knew China wouldn't turn that down.

When the day came, North and America purposefully came later once all the others had gathered. When South welcomed them in, China immediately tried reprimanding the two for trying to involve SK in whatever shenanigans or arguments they started this time while he was trying to host family and clearly had a lot to do right now, assuming that was why those two were there at the same time. NK basically very briskly told him they were here to tell them all something and to gather everyone to make it easier, clearly wanting to just get this over with, while America was uncharacteristically quiet and clearly felt and looked awkward.

When they told them (mostly NK just spat it out in the bluntest way possible), Hong Kong and Taiwan seriously thought it was a joke SK, NK, and America were in on. Japan initially thought so too, but knowing America's cues, ticks, and seeing how generally awkward the bigger nation was, he quickly realized it wasn't one and was silent in surprise. China seemed puzzled slightly until he admitted that it actually made sense considering he noticed their usual arguments lacked the normal amount of bite in them this past year (which shocked NK and America that China actually noticed somewhat, though clearly didn't realize how long this had been going on). Hong Kong and Taiwan didn't start believing it until they saw SK didn't react at all to the announcement, not even a hint of a smile that would normally give away that it was a prank. That's when Taiwan asks SK directly if he had already known, which SK admitted to knowing for several years now.

That's when everyone is just dumbfounded that NK and America had been going out for so long without anyone knowing. China made a comment about how the two were clever, but not clever enough to pull a fast one on himself since he has seen so much in his 4000 years, which led to America saying "technically, you thought we had something going on for only the past year, so we actually did pull one over your eyes". NK promptly elbowed him in the ribs to shut him up.

Cue essentially a game of 20 questions because NK and America are just bombarded for the next half hour trying to explain things. SK quietly handed his twin a bottle of soju, knowing this was going to be a long night. Eventually America pipes up after a subtle comment from Japan about them both playing with fire keeping this under wraps, saying how they both have known that for a while and the one thing they ask of them all is to just stay quiet about it since the main reason they told them was that it would be better to hear from them rather than through someone else.

Rest of the night was semi-awkward and NK hated having the spotlight like that for that long, so America and him took their leave. They didn't leave before China pulled them aside to let them know America is welcome at the next family gathering.

Future gatherings were much more tolerable. During the times when America could sneak by and join them, the couple were much more relaxed once they were used to now being in a situation where they didn't need to hide their relationship. America was much more prone to holding the other by the waist or just having an arm over NK's shoulders, along with being his boisterous self. It still baffled East Asia to see these two as a pair considering how opposite they acted, but it was more interesting to see NK soften up in ways they didn't think the nation could. Though Taiwan was privy to some of the cuter moments between the couple since she and NK used to have a fairly solid friendship a while back and honestly was the most relaxed person out of the family that wouldn't make a big scene when they did anything remotely couple-y.

FACE:

After letting North's side know about their relationship, America had to do some convincing to get NK to agree to let England and France know, using the same excuse that it would probably be better they know from them rather than through a scandal or rumors. Canada already knew, but America wanted Canada over anyways because he was going to need as much back up as possible, for he feared England's reaction the most.

Canada had very little interaction with North Korea, outside of politics and war, and really only knew that his brother was dating him, so he was suspicious of the other in general. Since it had been several years, and these two were still together, he softened a little, but not by much. He definitely knew England was not going to take it well and knew he needed to be there to act as peacekeeper and to restrain the Englishman if need be. As much as he figured the reaction would be justified, he didn't want America to take the brunt of it alone and NK was too unpredictable for his taste to trust he would be fine or to not escalate arguments.

While they were waiting for England and France to arrive, Canada started learning a lot more about how America and NK acted together. America was not shy about PDA, at least in front of Canada, and it was kind of intriguing to see the difference in how NK reacted. He noticed the tone and general vibe NK gave off was completely different around America, like it was softer or more affectionate rather than being defensive and having a generally dangerous aura. Sure, NK elbowed him in the ribs when America got too excited with his hugs, but it was far better than Canada thought would happen. He got an idea of the softer side of NK when America's anxiety finally caught up with him and the Korean was almost like a mother hen with how much care he was showing. It made Canada accept that these two definitely had a mutual love towards each other, and his suspicions died down.

Now, when America and Canada sat England and France down for the talk, NK was a lot more hesitant but wasn't going to leave America on his own (especially since America stuck right by him when they told his side of the family), so he was semi-hiding around the corner so that he was close enough to at least listen in and be right there if needed. Canada agreed that NK's immediate presence would have set alarm bells off for England and France, and it would be best to break it to them when they were calm and not already on edge.

When America told England and France, they both seriously thought it was joke, even laughing (England laughing the hardest) and saying how he really needed to come up with something more believable than that. When NK spoke about it being true and stepped out (America not so subtly shifted to the side so that he was partially in front of NK cause he felt an immediate need to protect), France was more dumbfounded but more accepting if a bit skeptical (love is love, c'est la vie) while England went from confusion, to shock, to rage. If it weren't for Canada holding England down, he probably would have lunged at NK and America.

England went OFF on them, with his main focus being directed towards NK and how this was clearly just a plot involving his government and that America is an absolute idiot for believing otherwise. It was at this point that NK, in the calmest and level-headed tone despite being on the very edge of losing his temper that sent shivers down all the nations' spines, told England right off that not only is the idea of a plot so ludicrous that even his own leader would laugh at it, but that it was entirely wrong. He goes right on to say that he is risking his own well-being and safety and is completely willing to toe that line because his love for Alfred is stronger than his own suspicions and fear of his own government. NK tells England, with maybe a foot distance between them and America holding NK back from going any closer, that he can hate him as much as he wants, he can even still choose to not accept that they are in a relationship, but he will make sure England walks away knowing two things: this relationship has nothing to do with politics and that his attitude and throwing a fit because of his hatred will not change the fact that they are dating and will continue to date. This was a curtesy so that they knew from the horse's mouth rather than from someone else; acceptance was never expected. Continuing on, NK states how he can even hate England himself as much as he wants, but that he will be tolerant of him regardless since he will not force America to cut him out of his life, and that all that he expects from England is to be treated the same. As if that wasn't enough, NK had to add that, yeah, America can be an idiot, but he's his idiot, so don't call him that or he will be more than happy to punch England in the face.

So, the first meeting with FACE did not go well, especially with England. In private, that confrontation took so much out of NK that he was visibly shaking from nerves and emotionally drained afterwards. Canada and France absolutely had more respect for NK himself after that (France couldn't help but gush at how romantic it was and how it was like a classic scene out of a romance movie/drama). After some time to stew, England grew a grudging respect as well, though it never stopped future interactions between NK and himself at later gatherings from being super tense.

Though there was one time when NK and England had a temporary truce at a gathering where America was being excessively idiotic. It went like this:

America does/says something that makes the 5th or so stupidest thing he has done or said today.

NK, about to lose it: I'm about ready to chuck this encyclopedia at your head if you don't smarten up!

England, whose also had enough: Don't aim for his head, you'll only make him worse by losing what little brain cells he has left. Aim for the shins, he'll learn quicker that way.

I know New Year resolutions aren't a thing everywhere, but because the New Year for a lot of places just started I thought it might be cool.

What is one resolution that each of them keep, and one that they drop?

You know, I honestly can't remember if I've done something like this before. I'm also not the most adept at searching Tumblr archives, much less lots of behind the scene stuff, so if there was a way for me to figure that out I just don't know about it.

This also gets a little tricky since I know Chinese New Year is more prominent in both Koreas, and I definitely know very little about it other than small bits and pieces I've seen on blogs, fanfics, and Tik Tok. Basically next to no knowledge. As such, this is mostly going to focus on New Year customs I'm familiar with, because I don't feel comfortable talking about Chinese New Year due to my lack of knowledge.

Also this is going to be long, so be prepared.

CW: light mentions of the Korean War and the separation, alcoholism, issues with weight loss, a swear word or two that is censored

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kimchiburger: America introduced this concept to SK fairly early on after they began to build a friendship, and SK found it kind of amusing but also kind of a cool idea. Amusing mostly because, since he's lived so long, he knows it's mostly just going to be the same thing every year and most of these resolutions don't actually get followed through with, but cool as in it kind of is like setting up goals for oneself and sort of makes people try to better themselves.

America obviously makes one for getting into better shape or lose weight, which usually just doesn't keep for long because his diet is very weird and his expectations are extremely too high or too low. Like he under or overestimates how much work it will take or how much he will actually lose, much less what is actually healthy for his body type. SK has to remind him that at least he tried and it will take time, though he will love him even if he does gain weight.

As far as the one he keeps, America made one about trying to be less ignorant of other's customs. He cringes at every memory where he unknowingly and/or accidentally did something rude towards others purely surrounding customs, as well as constantly wonder if being belligerent and his ignorance caused unneeded tension between him and others when they could have potentially become friends. Thus, he makes it his goal to learn as much about other cultures as he can, even those within his own country, no matter if they are minorities or majorities. SK helps him with this a lot when it comes to Korean culture and pointing out the differences between cultures, such as eating etiquettes between Japan, South Korea, and China. SK would also invite the Philippines over to help out with pointing out sub groups in each country and how similar and different certain customs are across multiple countries.

SK tried making new year resolutions when he first heard about them from America, and he always makes the same one every year nearing the end of the 1980s, no matter if it is kept, even if only with marginal results, or drops catastrophically: Have a better relationship with NK. He knows he has very little control over it, considering politics, but in an ideal world where it was just he and his brother influencing their relationship, he would do anything to start mending it. They were bonded together and had each other's backs through thick and thin for centuries if not millennia, only for it be shredded to bits in the span of half a century. There was a time for a few decades where he truly despised NK, just because the wounds kept reopening and the resulting emotional rollercoaster was extremely chaotic, but his anger and feelings of betrayal have been tempered enough where regret and sadness have slowly started to form with some logical reasoning behind it. He's also starting to realize that the longer they are separated and at odds with each other, the less likely reunification will be possible, not only from practical and logistical standpoints like economy, military, and what not, but even from a cultural perspective where he's beginning to see that their own languages are slowly starting to split and certain cultural norms don't hold up as well between them. SK actually was terrified slightly when one day he and NK were in an argument and he was having a hard time understanding him.

Rusnk: From what I understand and have researched briefly, I believe New Years is a bigger deal in Russia than Christmas is, considering Christmas came back after the Soviet Union fell.

Russia loves New Year's. Not necessarily for the idea of "new year, new me" that is common in America where it's a clean slate, but just because a new year means a chance to try again, to learn from the previous year and do better. The idea of making a resolution is still a fairly newer concept introduced, but he likes the idea of them. One in particular that he made that he kept was try to find the good, beauty, or happiness in even the littlest of things. He's lived so long with bitter cold and such a dark history, often by his own hand too, that he's forgotten that not everything in the world is a cold, cruel place or is meant to break him. Even if it is only in a few things or even one thing for an entire year, he finds it as an accomplishment. He's recently started to see snow as more than just brutal winter and has started to see the beauty snow fall can be and the happy times winter can bring, like children making forts or snowball fights, gathering around warmth for celebrations and family time, the way silence doesn't have to be deafening or oppressive and that it can bring peace of mind. It helps that NK likes to indulge in these kinds of things on occasion, and often times will compose poetry with Russia as a means to help organize thoughts and see the better aspects of things.

One that he definitely drops is trying to cut back on his liquor intake, not necessarily due to liking liquor that much, but mostly cause it is so hard to do and political matters and emotional trauma don't make it any easier. He tries, at least around NK, to not drink that much mostly because the other tries to drink with him and it is an absolute disaster when the Korean does. He's also noticing the effects the amount of liquor he normally drinks is starting to have on his body, despite being an immortal. Probably died of cirrhosis of the liver a few times before he knew what it was in his time as a nation. He's realizing he has an addiction of sorts, but doesn't have the knowledge, constant support (NK can't always be by his side 24/7 and he lives alone majority of the time), and massive amounts of will power to either consistently drink less or kick it entirely. He still makes this resolution each year because he is learning from the previous year of what has worked and not and is getting better each time.

NK is far more inclined to Chinese New Year, but indulges in the Western New Year once in a while, mostly because Russia loves it so much. He's very much a pessimistic pragmatic when it comes to resolutions, since he believes people mostly do them as a front and don't actually mean to follow through with them, and that a new year is just "new year, same sh!t". He also doesn't care for them cause they are a Western tradition, but did some mostly to humor Russia.

One he did keep was just doing more creative things, like practicing his instruments or writing or drawing, mostly because he's realized he hasn't had time as of late to do any of them for several years and missed them to an extent. Thankfully, part of Russia's resolutions helped to keep his, since he and Russia write poetry together when Russia is struggling to see the good in things on a particularly bad day. He also likes to play his violin with Russia when the other has his own out. They actually work quite well together once they get through the rusty phase.

One he actually thought he was going to keep turned out to be the one he dropped, which was just trying to say one nice thing to people, whether daily or just whenever he actually saw any other nations. He figured out quickly that his attitude and temper make that really difficult for himself, and when they aren't a factor he botches it and will accidentally insult someone or stumble over his words because his social skills are near zero when not in a professional setting.

Commieburger: America loves making resolutions, but is bad at keeping them unless he has help, while NK is the pessimistic pragmatic that sees right through the sugarcoating and calls bullsh!t on them. The only reason America got NK to made a resolution at all was through compromise and a deal. America broached the subject with the idea of a shared resolution between them, that way both of them work at it together and progress will be made in their relationship. NK mulled it over for a bit, but gave in when he thought about how this would benefit them in the long run.

Their two resolutions were to be able to read each other better so they were more likely to be on the same page more often, which they did end up keeping, and the other was lessening petty arguments, which they debate over if it technically was kept or not.

A lot of their miscommunication, after some discussion, mostly stems from either not understanding intentions, word choice, or just a lack of accurately reading the other. Like, America often thinks NK is in a foul mood when really he's either just deep in thought about something or he's actually neutral (his resting facial expression doesn't help). NK had a hard time figuring out if America was actually boasting or was trying to hide his insecurities or nervousness with the hero complex. The resolution was open-ended on how they would achieve it, but it allowed both of them to generate ways that would hopefully work. NK was prone to doing round-about ideas, such as playing chess to analyze ticks and expressions of the other to get a general idea of certain behaviors or ticks he sees occurring in other situations, since he knows he sucks at directly communicating when it comes to opening up or just with emotions in general. America is more direct and will just ask on occasion, at least giving NK a heads-up that he's trying to ask about more minor stuff so as to not make the other too uncomfortable. Usually he does this while treating NK to food or drinks he made that he knows the other won't turn his nose up at, since NK is more agreeable when there is food involved. It actually worked better than anticipated when America realize he was no longer walking on egg shells with second guessing if NK was in a good mood or meant any of the things he says, especially with verbal ticks or slight expression changes or physical ticks. NK, in turn, became more aware of when America was trying to put on a show and became better at understanding the sources of these acts while being able to temper the other's fears or nerves.

The way that you write them as having so many issues, but actively working on communication. How they keep their personality, but learn to communicate. Amazing. Relationships that come easy and appear to not need work are good, and all but ones where both sides have to actively work on communicating, and they do because they value/like/love eachother. Phemonimal.

Thank you so much for having the courage to write this to me and the praise for my work. I was in the same position as you for a long time as well, before I took the chance and found a tumblr user who actively posted about Commieburger herself and communicated with her about it. In fact, I only started writing about Commieburger because of the courage I found in myself and through her as inspiration. I've always struggled with publishing because I'm always second guessing myself on if I even put out good content, so the praise means so much to me.

A lot of inspiration behind how I construct Commieburger's relationships in the headcannons comes from both the original blogger I was inspired by, as the North Korea used is their OC that I asked permission to use, and from personal experiences, both traumatic experiences and observations of people. One of the biggest points I learned, from education and from seeing how family and friends react, is that one should never underestimate the power of human emotions and desires, as they can be some of the most powerful tools a human can have. This can have great benefits and great determents, especially when it comes to toxic relationships, manipulation from higher powers, or making relationships work. Don't get me wrong, I love to read about and watch relationships that are very wholesome and fairly smooth sailing, as all humans strive for such kinds of relationships in their lives, but I find fictional character relationships more intriguing when emotions are that strong but the relationship isn't an easy road or they have to work at it, as it seems more in line with reality as far as my own personal experiences go.

One of the other main reasons for portraying the character's relationships like that is because trust is such a crucial component to making the relationship work. Considering their history, NK and America need to have serious faith and trust in the other, plus an understanding that a lot of arguments and tensions are due to the need for complete faith and trust, which can be extremely scary for people who are either so unused to blindly trusting (NK) or having to gain and earn trust when there was already a rocky start with someone that is harder to read than most (America).