Kim Jong Un Marks 40th Birthday with Unprecedented Loyalty Oaths in North Korea
The loyalty oaths on Kim Jong Un's birthday signify a strategic shift in North Korean leadership dynamics, potentially setting a new precedent for political allegiance.
- For the first time since assuming power in 2011, Kim Jong Un required North Korean citizens to pledge loyalty on his birthday.
- The South and North Development Institute suggests these oaths could lead to Kim's birthday being declared an official national anniversary.
- This change moves away from traditional celebrations for his predecessors and may strengthen Kim's personal cult of leadership.
- Analysts view this development as part of a broader effort to intensify the regime's propaganda and consolidate power.
- Recent events, including public appearances with his daughter, underscore a concerted effort to secure the Kim dynasty's future.