Kim Jong-un and wife ride symbolic animal on Mt Paektu
- Kim Jong-un and his wife were compared to characters from 'Lord of the Rings' while riding white horses on Mt. Paektu in a South Korean newspaper.
- The horses, part of a recent arms trade with Russia, symbolize the Kim family's legacy and are often featured in propaganda.
- This imagery reinforces the Kim dynasty's narrative and highlights the ongoing military collaboration between North Korea and Russia.
In 2023, Kim Jong-un and his wife, Ri Sol-ju, were depicted in a South Korean newspaper as resembling 'tubby elves' from the 'Lord of the Rings' while riding white horses on Mt. Paektu. This mountain holds significant cultural importance in North Korea, being associated with the Kim dynasty's legacy. The Chosun Ilbo reported that North Korea allegedly traded arms with Russia in exchange for luxury goods, including a trainload of white horses, which are symbolic in the country. The recent acquisition included 24 horses, specifically Orlov Trotters, which are favored by Kim and often featured in propaganda videos. These videos showcase Kim riding alongside his family, reinforcing the symbolism of the white horse linked to the Kim family's historical narratives. The white horse is emblematic of the Kim family's heritage, with claims that Kim Il Sung rode one during his resistance against Japanese rule. Additionally, Kim Jong-il's birth is mythologized to have occurred on Mt. Paektu, surrounded by a double rainbow, further solidifying the mountain's significance. The horses are not only for personal use but also serve as gifts for high-ranking officials and family members, indicating their role in North Korea's political and military displays. In a recent military parade, Kim's daughter, Ju-ae, was seen riding one of the Orlov Trotters, highlighting the family's continued use of these animals in public displays of power. The exchange of animals between Russia and North Korea is not unprecedented, as evidenced by a previous gift of goats from Putin to Kim, following a military partnership agreement. This ongoing relationship between the two nations suggests a deepening collaboration that extends beyond mere symbolism. Overall, the imagery of Kim and his wife riding white horses on Mt. Paektu serves to reinforce the Kim dynasty's narrative and its connection to North Korean identity, while also showcasing the evolving dynamics of international relations with Russia.