North Korean State Affairs Commission Chairman Kim Jong-un looked at the deceased's remains with a sorrowful expression and appeared to be on the verge of tears. After a moment of silent tribute, he was also seen wiping away tears as he turned away, scenes captured on Korean Central TV. [Korean Central TV footage] [Image source=Yonhap News]
[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Hyun-seok] Kim Jong-un, Chairman of the State Affairs Commission of North Korea, paid his respects to Marshal Hyon Chol-hae, a key military figure under the Kim Jong-il regime, who passed away on the 19th.
On the 20th, Kim visited the funeral hall set up at the April 25th Culture Hall for Marshal Hyon Chol-hae of the Korean People's Army and expressed deep condolences, according to a report by the Korean Central News Agency on the 21st.
Kim said, "For decades, he fully demonstrated heroic courage and sacrifice in the struggle to resolutely defend the Great Leader," adding, "He closely assisted the Great General's Songun revolutionary leadership and devoted himself to strengthening and developing our People's Army into a faithful revolutionary armed force that obeys only the leadership of the Great Leader, becoming the shadow of our General." He further mourned, "Losing Comrade Hyon Chol-hae is an irreparable loss to our Party, army, and people."
He emphasized, "We must never forget the brilliant life of the veteran revolutionary and learn from his loyalty and revolutionary faith."
Kim Jong-un showed a sorrowful expression as he looked at the late Marshal’s remains, appeared to be on the verge of tears, and was seen wiping away tears after a moment of silent tribute, as captured by Korean Central Television.
He personally took the role of 'Chairman of the State Funeral Committee' for Hyon Chol-hae’s state funeral, demonstrating utmost respect. Hyon was a key military figure holding positions such as Politburo member, Central Committee member, and Central Military Commission member of the Workers' Party, playing an important role in Kim Jong-il’s control over the military. He was also responsible for educating Kim Jong-un as his successor during the Kim Jong-il regime.
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