PYONGYANG — In a push to solidify loyalty towards Kim Jong-un, North Korea's state media intensified its appeals ahead of the 30th death anniversary of the nation's founder, Kim Il-sung, set for Monday, amid rising tensions over the country's weapons testing and a new defense pact with Russia.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the main state newspaper, the call for unwavering loyalty comes as North Korea prepares to commemorate Kim Il-sung, who led the country from 1948 until his death in 1994 and is the grandfather of the current leader. The paper emphasized that "wholeheartedly following the will of Kim Jong-un" ensures the "eternal life of the great leader" and the fulfillment of his lifelong wishes. This year marks a significant milestone, as the nation typically holds major ceremonies every fifth or tenth anniversary, with previous large-scale commemorations in 2014 and 2019.
The state media's narrative aligns Kim Jong-un closely with his grandfather, not only ideologically but also symbolically, as demonstrated by Kim's early adoption of similar fashion and hairstyle, aimed at reinforcing loyalty and consolidating power. The ongoing celebrations are expected to underscore this linkage, with the state media listing several projects initiated by Kim Jong-un as direct continuations of his grandfather’s legacy.