North Korea Executes Relatives of Purged Uncle

Last month, North Korea leader Kim Jong Un has reportedly executed the husband of his aunt, Jang Song Thaek. According to South Korean news agency Yonhap, Kim also ordered the execution of the relatives of Jang following the killing of his uncle. Those he ordered to be eliminated included Jang's sons, grandchildren, nephews, and sister and her husband, who was the Ambassador to Cuba. Some were dragged out of their homes and shot to death and others were called to Pyongyang in early December to be officially executed while bystanders watched. This action confirms that "Kim's brutality exceeds even that of his father and grandfather, his predecessors in power," and his fear of opposing forces. The insecurity of his power shows the faltering and unstable powers that North Korea faces in current and upcoming years.

In an effort to grip onto the power he has over his regime and to protect his self interests, he has eliminated possible threats to his power, even at the cost of betraying officials and family members. This traditional method of punishment of the extended families of the culprit has been passed down from father to son and shows that North Korea's ideology and culture remains strong even after three generations under the Kim regime. Although his decision to get rid of will give him a stronger hold on the government now, in the long run, it will only ensue further distrust and turmoil in the ruling regime. There will probably be a split in the government in the future; those who are in support of Kim and those who oppose him.

The elimination of any opposing forces by Kim Jong Un poses the threat not only to the common people in North Korea, but even the official leaders' who hold high positions in the government like Jang Song Thaek, who was considered the second highest authoritative figure of N. Korea. Those who watched the execution of the family members were even surprised by Kim's decision. This shows that no one is safe in the country and furthermore, reveals how far Kim is willing to go to maintain his power.

In the midst of these events, North Korea civilians are still holding an event in celebration of the deceased leader, the Kimjongilia festival. The theme is: "Kimjongilia in full bloom promising a rosy future of the great Paektusan nation." Ironically, the North Koreans are worshipping those who are caging them in this isolated country from the rest of the world, but will the North Korean people soon begin to question their leadership?

Source: http://archive.news10.net/news/world/269593/5/Report--N-Korea-executes-relatives-of-purged-uncle