Kim Jong-un: A Closer Look At The Enigmatic Leader

How Much is Kim Jong-un Worth?

Kim Jong-un, the Supreme Leader of North Korea, commands a staggering net worth of $5 billion. While the world knows little about him compared to other global political figures, his persona and actions have captured significant media attention. Kim holds multiple titles in North Korea, including Marshal, Chairman of the Central Military Commission, Chairman of the State Affairs Commission, and commander-in-chief of the armed forces. In North Korean propaganda, he's often referred to as the "Dear Leader." As the leader of one of the most isolated nations on Earth, Kim has been at the center of numerous controversies, ranging from allegations of human rights abuses like torture and abductions to the operation of prison camps.

The Wealth Behind the Power

In 2013, a joint investigation by South Korea and the United States uncovered that Kim Jong-un and his family controlled assets worth up to $5 billion. These funds were spread across over 200 foreign bank accounts in countries like Austria, Liechtenstein, Russia, Singapore, China, Switzerland, and Luxembourg. Interestingly, many of these accounts, particularly those in China, reportedly held hundreds of millions of dollars in cash. Beyond just money, Kim’s wealth is evident in his extravagant lifestyle. He reportedly owns nearly 20 palaces and mansions scattered throughout North Korea, along with a fleet of over 100 luxury cars, a preference for European sports cars. Additionally, Kim owns a private jet and a luxury yacht stretching over 100 feet. According to former NBA star Dennis Rodman, Kim spends a significant amount of time on a private island off North Korea's coast.

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A Peek Into His Early Life

The exact date of Kim Jong-un’s birth remains a mystery, though North Korea officially claims it to be January 8, 1982. Skeptics argue this date is suspiciously "perfect," as it aligns with being born exactly 70 years after his grandfather, Kim Il-sung, and 40 years after his father, Kim Jong-il. Kim Jong-un grew up with an older brother and a younger sister, though his father had additional children from other relationships. Kim Jong-un's formative years were spent in Switzerland, where he attended school under an alias. Described as shy but well-integrated, he developed a passion for basketball. By 2000, he returned to North Korea, enrolling in Kim Il-sung University, a prestigious institution in Pyongyang. Here, he earned degrees in physics and military science, graduating in 2007. In 2010, Kim was publicly introduced to the North Korean people, marking his official entry into the Worker's Party of North Korea.

The Rise to Supreme Leadership

Initially, Kim Jong-un wasn’t the expected successor; his older brother, Kim Jong-nam, was considered the frontrunner. However, after being caught trying to enter Japan with a forged passport—reportedly to visit Tokyo Disneyland—Kim Jong-nam's chances dwindled. Kim Jong-un, seen as a replica of his father in both personality and preferences, became the favored choice. In 2009, Kim was officially named as the next in line to succeed Kim Jong-il. By 2010, he had risen through the ranks of the Workers’ Party of Korea, achieving the equivalent of a four-star general. Following Kim Jong-il's death in December 2011, Kim Jong-un was swiftly declared Supreme Leader, despite speculation that other high-ranking officials might act as regents. In 2012, he was promoted to the rank of marshal, the highest in North Korea’s military. While theoretically sharing power with the Premier and Parliament President, Kim Jong-un effectively wields ultimate control over the nation.

Kim's leadership has introduced subtle yet significant changes to North Korea. Western cultural influences have seeped into the country, and he’s taken a more relaxed approach to his public image, appearing alongside his wife at concerts and expressing remorse over incidents like the collapse of an apartment building. Economically, Kim has eased restrictions, fostering reform. In infrastructure, his focus has shifted from political monuments to recreational facilities like skating rinks, parks, and swimming pools.

However, Kim’s rule has a darker side. He has executed members of the family of Jang Song-taek, a former high-ranking official, perceiving them as threats to his authority. Despite this, Kim's diplomatic endeavors have been groundbreaking. He met with South Korean and Chinese leaders, and even former U.S. President Donald Trump, in ways unprecedented for North Korean leaders. These meetings led to pledges of nuclear disarmament and peace talks, marking a historic shift in North Korea’s international relations.

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