Kim Jong Un Intensifies Independent Idolization Efforts
Kim Ju Ae Solidifies Successor Status While Remaining Out of Public View
The National Intelligence Service (NIS) stated that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is "unlikely to have hypertension, and overall, there appear to be no major health concerns."
On November 4, during a National Assembly Intelligence Committee audit held at its headquarters in Seocho-gu, Seoul, the NIS reported, "Despite having underlying health conditions, Chairman Kim has been able to travel long distances between the provinces and Pyongyang and attend various events without difficulty," adding, "There are no particular signs of health problems."
The NIS further stated, "Chairman Kim Jong Un is intensifying his independent idolization efforts to establish a ruling foundation that surpasses that of Kim Il Sung," and added, "Measures symbolizing personal cult, such as the installation of mosaic murals and the production of badges, have been continuously observed."
The NIS also noted, "He is glorifying Russian troops dispatched abroad and highlighting this as his own achievement, while promoting the military gains on the Russia-Ukraine front as results comparable to the victory myths of the 1950s." The agency added, "There are also moves to establish two new victory museums in Pyongyang."
Regarding Chairman Kim's daughter, Kim Ju Ae, the NIS explained, "This year, she has expanded her activities into the diplomatic field for the first time, solidifying her position as a prominent successor." However, the agency added, "Since her recent visit to China, her public appearances have decreased, and it appears she has remained out of the public eye for about 60 days since September."
The NIS analyzed this as "a strategic move to control excessive attention on succession discussions and to increase focus on Kim Jong Un himself."
Meanwhile, the NIS also reported, "Kim Jong Un appears to be taking steps with the resumption of dialogue between North Korea and the United States in mind."
The agency stated, "Although a North Korea-U.S. summit on the sidelines of the APEC summit did not materialize, there are indications that North Korea has been analyzing the tendencies of the U.S. working-level team on North Korea and preparing for behind-the-scenes contact." The NIS reported, "Kim Jong Un is willing to engage with the United States if conditions are met."
Additionally, the NIS said, "Since the Supreme People's Assembly, Kim Jong Un has been moderating the tone of his remarks on nuclear issues and adjusting his messaging," and added, "Despite ongoing tensions between North Korea and the United States, the possibility for dialogue remains open."
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