ArrowArtboardCreated with Sketch.Title ChevronTitle ChevronIcon FacebookIcon LinkedinIcon Mail ContactPath LayerIcon MailPositive ArrowIcon Print
N Korea at crossroads

Kim Jong Un recasts party rulebook to forge own identity

North Korean leader shifts from 'military first' to 'people first' in bid to form popular mandate

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in recent months has signaled a shift away from his father's focus on the military above all. (KCNA via Reuters)

SEOUL -- Kim Jong Un has placed the North Korean people first and foremost under revisions to the all-important governing party rulebook, according to reports that began surfacing this month, indicating that the leader is setting out to create an identity that is starkly different from his revered grandfather and father.

Since taking the reins in 2011, the North Korean leader had embraced his connection to the Paektu bloodline, invoking his grandfather and North Korean founder Kim Il Sung through his mannerisms and clothing choices.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored Content This content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.

Nikkei Asian Review, now known as Nikkei Asia, will be the voice of the Asian Century.

Celebrate our next chapter
Free access for everyone - Sep. 30

Find out more