North Korea Kim Jong-un Makes First Public Speech

The new leader of North Korea has given his first public speech to celebrate the 100th birthday of the country’s founder Kim Il-sung. The speech also came two days after North Korea’s failed rocket launch.

Kim Jong-un spoke to tens of thousands of people in the country’s capital Pyongyang. The main square was prepared for a series of festivities to honor Kim Il-sung.

The young leader offered his respect to his predecessors and called on his citizens to continue strengthening the country’s military might. He emphasized that the country’s military technology is capable of both defence and offence.

He also said that North Korea can no longer be threatened, thanks to its nuclear arms. His speech was warmly received by his troops, while shouting “Mansei” or “long life.”

Kim Jong-un expressed his disappointment that Korea has been divided into two for many decades. He said he is willing to cooperate with those who wish for reunification.

North Korea founder Kim Il-sung died in 1994 after 46 years in power. Upon his death, Kim Jong-Il assumed power until he died in December 2011 following a heart attack. The power was then transferred to third-generation Kim Jong-un.

Last April 13, North Korea launched its long-range rocket despite major condemnation from world leaders. North Korea officials said the rocket was to boost an observational satellite into space but other countries believe this was a show of military might.

The rocket launch, however, failed just a minute after it was launched. The Defence Ministry of South Korea said the rocket disintegrated and the pieces fell to the sea.

Tagged Kim Il-sung, Kim Jong-Il, Kim Jong-un, North Korea