According to the Chosun Sinbo, a pro-North Korean newspaper in Japan, on Sunday, the ruling Workers' Party in Pyongyang has published a book extolling the extraordinary skills of the young leader.
The paper reported that the book describes Kim as a worldly man who is well-versed in international politics and military affairs, and writes that he was a child prodigy able to fire guns and drive at a young age.
The Chosun Sinbo said it was the first volume of what is expected to be a collection of similarly sycophantic books about Kim. Kim Il-sung, his grandfather and the founding leader of the North, had 100 such volumes, while Kim Jong-il, Jong-un's late father, had 70 similar tomes written about him.
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North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (Yonhap file photo) |
In January of this year, the North's Korean Central Broadcasting Station aired a documentary featuring Kim Jong-un, believed to be in his late 20s, in which it claimed the new leader was a diligent student in college and completed his graduation thesis on the accomplishments of Kim Il-sung.
South Korean media covering North Korean affairs have also said badges bearing Kim Jong-un's image have been handed out to senior government officials.
Daily NK, a Seoul-based news site reporting on the North, quoted a source as saying Kim has given such badges to senior intelligence officials "to instill loyalty."
Commemorative stamps with Kim's portrait were issued in August, leading to speculation that badges would soon follow. It is considered an obligation for North Korean officials to wear badges showing their leader.
The Rodong Sinmun, the newspaper of the ruling party, recently began to run a new banner slogan in its top right-hand corner calling on people to rally around Kim Jong-un as their great leader. Previously, a generic message urging people to unite to achieve their socialist goals had been printed.
Experts believe intensifying efforts to idolize Kim are an indication that the father-son transfer of power has taken place smoothly.
These steps, experts added, may also be designed to finalize the transition period that began with the passing of Kim Jong-il last December.
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