In a recent article published by Jessica Gleman on July 11, 2023, on RumRaiders, a prominent professor and leading expert in defence and security has provided intriguing insights into the lavish lifestyle of Kim Jong-un, the North Korean dictator. The report reveals Kim’s extreme alcohol dependency, with a penchant for spending vast sums of money to import high-end spirits, particularly Hennessy, along with other fine wines and liquors.
In an interview with the Daily Star, Professor Anthony Glees highlighted the dictator’s opulent lifestyle, stating that Kim Jong-un ranks as the 36th richest person globally. In 2018, Kim made headlines by acquiring two special Maybach Mercedes S600s, owning an astonishing 17 palaces, and possessing a private plane. However, amid the grandeur, his alarming indulgence in alcohol and smoking habits became apparent, a concern raised by his chef.
When not executing security ministers in brutal ways, such as “flame thrower” punishments following unsuccessful rocket launches, Kim Jong-un reportedly spends up to $30 million annually on importing spirits into North Korea. This eye-opening revelation paints a stark contrast between the dictator’s extravagant spending and the impoverished state of his nation.
Last month, details about Kim’s health emerged in a report by the National Intelligence Service. Yoo Sang-bum, a lawmaker for South Korea’s ruling People Power Party, disclosed that the North Korean leader struggled with “severe” sleeping disorders, prompting him to hold sleeping pills. During a public appearance on May 16, Kim appeared exhausted, with dark circles around his eyes, further indicating the toll of his lavish lifestyle on his well-being.
Kim Jong-un’s weight gain has also been a subject of concern. Though officially listed as 5ft 7in tall, there have been rumours of him using lifts to appear taller. Photos from 2018 suggested he may be closer to 5ft 5in tall, but according to AI weight estimates, he now weighs approximately 308 pounds. His ballooning weight, presumed to result from overindulgence, earned him the unflattering nickname “Pang,” meaning “the fat one,” a moniker few dare to utter in North Korea.
Adding to the concern is the speculation that Kim might be experiencing a mid-life crisis, leading him to increase his alcohol consumption, despite medical advice advising him to cut back. A source told The Telegraph that he drinks fine spirits and wines excessively, even crying after consuming large quantities. This apparent loneliness and pressure further raise questions about his mental and emotional state.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first instance of Kim’s heavy drinking. In 2010, according to Drinks Business, he bragged about consuming ten bottles of Bordeaux in a single night, suggesting a long-standing pattern of excessive drinking.
The stark contrast between Kim Jong-un’s extravagant alcohol habits and the plight of ordinary North Koreans is hard to overlook. While the dictator indulges in expensive spirits, his people are said to consume cheap high, ABV spirits like Chinese Kaoliang Liquor or resort to illegally made home brews, as reported by the Guardian.
The article concludes with a thought-provoking perspective on how Kim’s health and lavish habits might impact North Korea’s future. Given the nation’s pressing needs, the staggering amount spent on high-end spirits could undoubtedly be redirected to benefit the well-being and prosperity of the people.
As the world watches, the story of Kim Jong-un unfolds, raising questions about the sustainability of his extravagant lifestyle and the potential consequences it may have for the future of North Korea and its citizens.
While there is limited verified information about Kim Jong-un due to the secretive nature of North Korea, here are some lesser-known facts and details about the enigmatic leader:
1. Date of Birth Uncertainty: Kim Jong-un’s exact date of birth is still a matter of speculation. Although it is widely believed that he was born on January 8, 1984, there are also claims that his birth may have occurred as early as 1982 or as late as 1983.
2. Swiss Education: Kim Jong-un attended school under a pseudonym in Switzerland during his youth. He studied at the International School of Berne, where he developed a passion for basketball and reportedly idolized Michael Jordan.
3. Obsession with Basketball: Kim Jong-un’s love for basketball is well-known. He is an avid fan of the NBA and has a particular affinity for the Chicago Bulls. In 2013, he reportedly invited Dennis Rodman, the former NBA player, to visit North Korea, leading to an unlikely friendship.
4. Family Power Transition: Kim Jong-un’s rise to power was marked by a carefully orchestrated transition of power within the Kim family. He succeeded his father, Kim Jong-il, after his death in December 2011, making him the third generation of the Kim dynasty to rule North Korea.
5. Title: Although he is often referred to as “Supreme Leader” or “Dear Leader” in North Korea, Kim Jong-un’s official title is the Chairman of the Workers’ Party of Korea, Chairman of the State Affairs Commission, and Supreme Commander of the Korean People’s Army.
6. Rare Public Appearances: In contrast to his father, Kim Jong-un has made several public appearances, often appearing alongside his wife, Ri Sol-Ju, and senior government officials. He has also been photographed participating in various activities, including visiting amusement parks and military facilities.
7. Friendship with Dennis Rodman: As mentioned earlier, Kim Jong-un’s relationship with former NBA star Dennis Rodman is unusual. Rodman has visited North Korea multiple times and even claimed that he has a “friendship” with Kim. However, considering the heavily staged nature of these interactions, how genuine this relationship is needs to be clarified.
8. Mystery Surrounding His Children: While it is known that Kim Jong-un has at least three children with his wife, Ri Sol-Ju, very little information is available about them. Their names, ages, and even genders are closely guarded secrets, reflecting the overall secrecy surrounding the Kim family.
9. Policy of “Byungjin”: Kim Jong-un introduced the “Byungjin” policy, prioritizing the simultaneous development of nuclear weapons and the economy. This approach underscores the regime’s commitment to advancing its nuclear capabilities while attempting to foster economic growth.
10. Executions and Purges: Kim Jong-un has been known for conducting purges and executing officials within his regime, sometimes using extreme methods such as anti-aircraft guns. His reign has seen a series of high-level officials being purged, indicating the regime’s harsh internal control and consolidation of power.
Despite some glimpses into Kim Jong-un’s life, much remains shrouded in secrecy, and accurate information about his personal life and governance is often difficult to confirm.