Lack of Public Celebrations Marks North Korean Leader Kim’s 40th Birthday
North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un, turned 40 years old on January 8th, 2022. However, unlike previous birthdays of the country’s leaders, this milestone went by without any public celebrations or grand displays of adoration. This absence of public festivities has raised eyebrows and sparked speculation about the possible reasons behind this unusual occurrence.
In North Korea, the birthdays of the country’s leaders are typically marked with extravagant displays of loyalty and devotion from the citizens. These celebrations often include mass rallies, fireworks, and other grand spectacles. However, this year’s lack of public celebrations for Kim Jong-un’s 40th birthday has left many wondering if there are underlying reasons for this departure from tradition.
One possible explanation for the absence of public celebrations could be the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. North Korea has taken strict measures to prevent the spread of the virus within its borders, including shutting down its borders and implementing stringent quarantine protocols. It is possible that the government decided to forego public gatherings and celebrations to avoid any potential risks associated with large gatherings during a pandemic.
Another reason could be the country’s current economic struggles. North Korea has been grappling with severe economic challenges, including international sanctions and natural disasters. These difficulties have led to food shortages and a struggling healthcare system. In such circumstances, it is possible that the government chose to prioritize resources towards more essential needs rather than extravagant public celebrations.
Furthermore, there have been reports suggesting that Kim Jong-un himself may have requested a more low-key celebration. The North Korean leader has been known to project a more modest and down-to-earth image compared to his predecessors. He has emphasized the importance of focusing on economic development and improving the living standards of the North Korean people. It is conceivable that he may have chosen to downplay his own birthday celebrations to align with this narrative.
Additionally, it is worth noting that North Korea has been facing increased international scrutiny and criticism in recent years. The country’s human rights record and nuclear weapons program have drawn condemnation from the international community. The absence of grand celebrations for Kim Jong-un’s birthday could be seen as an attempt to project a more restrained image to the outside world, potentially in an effort to improve the country’s international standing.
Whatever the reasons behind the lack of public celebrations, it is clear that this departure from tradition has sparked curiosity and speculation. The absence of grand displays of adoration for Kim Jong-un’s 40th birthday raises questions about the current state of affairs in North Korea. Whether it is due to the pandemic, economic challenges, the leader’s own preferences, or international pressures, only time will reveal the true motivations behind this unusual occurrence.
