Kim Jong Un's Childhood Friend: A Tale of Two Leaders

Hello there, curiosity seekers! Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of North Korea's Supreme Leader, Kim Jong Un, and his childhood friend, Kim Yong Chol. Buckle up, folks, because we're going on a journey through their formative years, all the way to the present day. Let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and kim jong un childhood friend.

Growing Up Together: Kim Jong Un and Kim Yong Chol

Alright, let's rewind the clock to the 1970s, in the heart of Pyongyang, North Korea's capital. Here, two young lads, Kim Jong Un and Kim Yong Chol, were growing up together, their bond forged in the halls of the prestigious Chongjin Middle School. But who were these boys, and how did their paths lead them to become two of the most powerful figures in North Korea today?

Kim Jong Un: The Heir Apparent

Born on January 8, 1983, Kim Jong Un was the third son of Kim Jong Il, the then-North Korean leader, and his consort, Ko Yong Hui. As the eldest son of Kim Jong Il's third wife, Kim Jong Un's future was all but guaranteed. He was groomed from a young age to take over the family business – ruling North Korea.

Kim Yong Chol: The Unlikely Friend

Now, let's talk about Kim Yong Chol. Born in 1953, Kim Yong Chol was a decade older than Kim Jong Un. Despite the age gap, the two became close friends, their bond strengthened by their shared love for basketball and video games. Kim Yong Chol, the son of a high-ranking military officer, was no stranger to power. However, his rise to prominence was anything but guaranteed.

The Formative Years: School, Sports, and Secrets

School Days

Both Kim Jong Un and Kim Yong Chol attended the Chongjin Middle School, a prestigious institution reserved for the elite. Here, they honed their minds and forged lifelong bonds. Kim Jong Un, despite his privileged upbringing, was known to be a diligent student, always striving to be the best. Kim Yong Chol, on the other hand, was a bit of a wild card, known for his mischievous streak.

Sports and Hobbies

Basketball was a shared passion for the two friends. They would often spend hours on the court, perfecting their game. Kim Jong Un, with his height and agility, was a natural, while Kim Yong Chol was known for his tenacious defense. But they weren't just about sports. They were also known to be avid video game enthusiasts, a hobby that would later cause some controversy.

The Secret Friendship

Their friendship, however, was not without its secrets. Kim Jong Un, despite his love for the game, was forbidden from playing video games by his father. Kim Jong Il saw them as a waste of time and a distraction from his son's studies. So, the two friends had to keep their gaming sessions a secret, sneaking out to play at Kim Yong Chol's house.

The Road to Power: Kim Jong Un's Ascent

Education Abroad

After graduating from middle school, Kim Jong Un was sent to study in Switzerland. Here, he lived under the alias Pak Un, attending the Lycée International de Ferney-Voltaire. It was during this time that he honed his love for basketball and, reportedly, his taste for luxury goods. Meanwhile, Kim Yong Chol stayed in North Korea, continuing his education and beginning his military career.

Succession and Power Struggles

Upon his return to North Korea in 2000, Kim Jong Un began his political career, slowly but surely climbing the ranks. After the death of his father, Kim Jong Il, in 2011, Kim Jong Un took over as the Supreme Leader of North Korea. His rise to power was not without its challenges, with some high-ranking officials questioning his leadership. But Kim Jong Un, with his shrewd political maneuvering and the backing of powerful allies, managed to consolidate his power.

Kim Yong Chol: From Friend to Enemy to Friend Again

The Falling Out

As Kim Jong Un ascended to power, Kim Yong Chol's star began to rise as well. He was appointed as the Director of the General Bureau of the Korean People's Army. However, their friendship hit a rough patch when Kim Yong Chol was accused of treason in 2015. He was reportedly arrested and sent to a labor camp. The reason behind this falling out remains unclear, but some speculate that it was due to Kim Yong Chol's involvement in a failed assassination attempt against Kim Jong Un.

The Reunion

However, in a dramatic turn of events, Kim Yong Chol was rehabilitated in 2017 and appointed as a Vice Chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea. His reunion with Kim Jong Un was caught on camera, with the two men embracing, their bond seemingly stronger than ever. This sudden rehabilitation has led to much speculation, with some suggesting that Kim Yong Chol's military experience and political acumen make him a valuable ally to Kim Jong Un.

The Present Day: Two Powerful Friends

Today, Kim Jong Un and Kim Yong Chol stand at the helm of North Korea, their friendship a testament to their enduring bond. Kim Jong Un, as the Supreme Leader, is the face of North Korea, his every move scrutinized by the world. Kim Yong Chol, on the other hand, operates more behind the scenes, his influence felt but not always seen.

Their friendship, despite its ups and downs, is a fascinating case study in North Korea's complex political landscape. It's a reminder that even in the halls of power, friendships can endure, and that sometimes, the most unlikely bonds can shape the course of history.

And there you have it, folks! A detailed look into the friendship of Kim Jong Un and Kim Yong Chol. Their story is a testament to the power of friendship, and a fascinating look into the world of North Korea's elite. Until next time, stay curious!