Communist states remain authoritarian (or totalitarian, in the case of North Korea). It doesn't belong to the past.
Okay, so when we are talking about modern autocratic regimes, I think these are best understood as "Communism in Name Only." The official party ideology may include rhetorical allusions to Marxism, but in practice, the way they operate has very little in common with the philosophy of Karl Marx.
You mentioned North Korea, who do not self-identify as communists. Their full title is actually
Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Official government propaganda is heavy on the socialistic language and rhetoric, but it simply an awkward and altogether unconvincing fig leaf which serves as a cover for the absolute rule of the Kim dynasty.
Forget the language. It's just window dressing. Look at how the work of governing is actually administered. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea is hardly any more communist than it is democratic. The culture is
extremely conservative and loyalty to the Kim dynasty is the central organizing principle. In fact, it bears more than a passing resemblance to what America might look like if it were made great again:
1. The people are devoutly patriotic and loyal to their country. Any criticism of the country is punished as treason.
2. National defense is of central importance. (30% of the population of the entire country is enlisted. 2nd largest military organization in the world.)
3. The executive has absolute authority
4. There is no movement for transgender rights.
5. There is no movement for gay rights.
6. The government has never even acknowledged the existence of such people within their country.
7. Traditional gender roles are enforced and women are expected to remain at home (with the exception of military service)
8. Compared to inner city areas of the US, there is almost no crime
9. Casual sex is forbidden, marriages are arranged via community matchmakers or families
10. Racist attitudes against non-Koreans are the norm (did I mention they are ultra nationalistic.)
I had to look a couple of these claims up to be sure. They are all easily verifiable with a search engine.
We might just have to agree to disagree, because you and I have completely different definitions of the word "communism." I think the words "totalitarianism" or "autocracy" would be far more accurate.
Edit: to acknowledge you also described them as totalitarian.
If we can't agree on what the terms mean, then we will just be talking past each other, with no actual communication.
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Just for a little context on my perspective, I am critical of many aspects of capitalism, I am critical of many aspects of Marxism. I think they both also have partial value. I have no political affiliation, never have never will.
