North Korea's Kim Jong-un Using Galaxy Z Flip? 'Foldable Phone' Spotted at ICBM Launch Site

Four Months Ago, All-in-One White Smartphone Spotted
UN Security Council Bans Export and Import of Electronic Devices to North Korea

North Korean State Affairs Commission Chairman Kim Jong-un was spotted carrying a new foldable smartphone that folds vertically. Although North Korea cannot import electronic devices due to sanctions, Kim’s use of electronic devices has been observed multiple times in the past.

On the 13th, North Korea’s Korean Central News Agency released photos of the inspection site of the test launch of the new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) 'Hwasong-18' conducted the previous day.

On the 12th, North Korea conducted a test launch of the new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) Hwasong-18, with Chairman Kim Jong-un in attendance, the Korean Central News Agency reported on the 13th. [Image source=Yonhap News]

The photos show an object resembling a foldable phone placed on the table in front of Chairman Kim, alongside cigarettes, an ashtray, and beverages. Although the manufacturer is unclear, considering the shape, size, and thickness, it appears similar to Samsung Electronics’ 'Galaxy Z Flip' series or China’s Huawei series, which fold vertically.

If it is indeed a foldable phone, it is highly likely that the product was secretly smuggled into North Korea via China.

UN Security Council Resolution 2397 prohibits the export and import of electronic devices to and from North Korea.

However, new electronic devices carried by Chairman Kim have been spotted multiple times in the past as well.

North Korean State Affairs Commission Chairman Kim Jong-un was seen on the 12th inspecting the test launch of the new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) 'Hwasong-18,' where an object presumed to be a 'foldable smartphone' was captured (right photo). The left photo shows a white integrated smartphone captured on March 9th when Chairman Kim provided on-site guidance during a fire strike training exercise of the Hwasong Artillery Unit responsible for important operational missions on the western front. [Image source=Yonhap News]

On March 9, while personally directing a fire attack training of the Hwasong artillery unit, a white all-in-one smartphone was placed on the desk where Kim was seated. Based on its size and design, it was presumed to be a Chinese product.

Also, during the test launch guidance of the large-caliber multiple rocket launcher in August 2019, a tablet that appeared to be an Apple iPad was placed on the desk inside Kim’s command post.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.