North Korea

Here is an article from The Economist on the dismal situation that many North Koreans face. What is the distinguishing difference between the way North Korea and America's governments operate? What would you predict to happen if Kim Jong Il allowed people to make their own choices about what/how much/what price to buy and sell? In the same city that offers luxury dog spas there are many who are homeless and without food.  Do you judge the American system to be better?For lack of a better phrase... just some food for thought.