North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally inspected flood-affected areas along the Yalu River in a rubber boat, according to the state-run newspaper, Rodong Sinmun. In a special article titled “Do the People Know the Devotion of the Great Father?” the paper reported that Kim visited flood damage sites in Sinuiju, Uiju County, and Jagang Province at the end of July.
Kim allegedly declared, “I will inspect the flood areas by riding a small rubber boat without any safety measures,” despite the inherent dangers.
The newspaper explained that although Kim received detailed reports on the damage, he chose to board the rubber boat to “directly experience the pain of the people who lost their precious homes filled with beautiful memories” and to “set recovery measures on-site” due to his deep love for the people.
The article described Kim’s hazardous conditions: “low-hanging power lines close to the water, unexpected dangers like whirlpools, and obstacles.” It noted that the boat struggled to navigate amidst utility poles and trees, “wobbling dangerously from side to side, almost capsizing with every ripple.”
A specific scene also aired on Korean Central Television depicted the rubber boat slipping to one side, pushed by swirling waves, and getting tangled in branches of submerged trees. Officials watching the scene said, “Our vision went black, and it felt like our hearts stopped as if the sky had disappeared.” Despite this, Kim ordered them to “move the rubber boat forward” without hesitation.
This portrayal is seen as an effort to emphasize that Kim prioritizes his people’s lives, even in difficult situations. Since taking power, Kim has consistently highlighted his “people-first” approach to bolster loyalty among the populace.
The newspaper added that flood victims expressed their unwavering loyalty, saying, “Even if we lose our homes and belongings, we fear nothing and envy nothing in this world as long as we have our leader.”