North Korea Continues Commemoration of Kim Jong-il's 11th Anniversary... More Subdued Than Last Year

by Kim Pyeonghwa

Published 17 Dec.2022 08:43(KST)

Updated 17 Dec.2022 08:45(KST)

open/close

Rodong Sinmun and Chosun Central News Report Kim Jong Un Memorial on 17th, Marking 11th Anniversary

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Pyeonghwa] North Korea held related memorial events to commemorate the 11th anniversary of the death of its former leader, Kim Jong-il, honoring his achievements. However, this year showed a more subdued atmosphere compared to last year, when large-scale memorial rallies were held.

Foreign media, including Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the Workers' Party of Korea, and the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the state news agency of North Korea, released numerous reports on the 17th commemorating the 11th anniversary of Kim Jong-il’s death, highlighting his achievements.

Rodong Sinmun devoted most of its pages to emphasizing Kim Jong-il’s establishment of the leadership system, national defense capabilities, and self-reliant economy. It also stressed loyalty to Kim Jong-un, stating, "The patriotic aspiration and desire for a strong nation of the great leader Comrade Kim Jong-il are now blossoming into a shining reality under the beloved Comrade Kim Jong-un."

KCNA introduced literary works related to Kim Jong-il, noting that these works commemorate Kim Jong-il’s affection and love. It also reported that international organizations, political parties, and groups from various countries sent flower baskets to the statues of Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il on Mansudae Hill.

Earlier, on the 15th, various memorial events took place in North Korea, with labor organizations responsible for propaganda holding gatherings to mark the 11th anniversary of Kim Jong-il’s death. However, since this year is not a significant anniversary year (such as the 5th or 10th year), no large-scale events were held.