The state of North Korea

Jang Song Taek, who held numerous posts in the North Korean regime since the 1970s, was considered the country's second-most powerful man.

Then, the most powerful man, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, had him executed.

Jang's death sent ripples through the isolated nation not just because of his influential position, but because he was the uncle of Kim Jong Un.

In the two years preceding his death, Jang held one of the most powerful posts - regent to the young North Korean leader. He was instrumental in the nation's transition from former leader Kim Jong Il to his son and heir, Kim Jong Un.

The secretive nature of the North Korean regime makes it a challenge to deduce why Jang fell out of favor, though one expert sums it up this way: Kim Jong Un outgrew his guardian and took him out.

Becky talks to politician David Alton about the message Kim Jong Un is sending with the execution of his uncle.