Where is Kim Jong Un? This question began circulating shortly before the military parade in Beijing celebrating the 80th anniversary of the victory over Japan and the end of World War II. The answer soon emerged, shedding light on how North Korea’s leaders can travel slowly but with absolute safety. Kim Jong Un’s appearance at the event marked his return to the international scene, and it was shrouded in symbolism.
A Trip Loaded with Symbolism – Kim Jong Un’s journey to Beijing was more than just a transfer; it signified his re-emergence on the multilateral stage , represented by his iconic armored train , known as “El Sol” (Taeyangho). This green-painted, heavily armored train has been the preferred means of transport for the Kim family since the founding of North Korea, tied closely to the leader’s personal security and the propaganda narrative of dynastic power.
The train’s usage reinforces the narrative of continuity and strength in a gathering where state leaders from over 20 countries convened, including strategic allies like Russia and Iran. Kim’s arrival by train highlights the deep-rooted symbols of his family’s rule while reaffirming their position on the world stage.
The Rail Legacy – The affinity for trains in the Kim dynasty traces back to Kim Il-sung, who utilized it as a symbol of modernity and connection to the masses. Kim Jong-il preferred this mode of transport out of a fear of flying, making extensive journeys, such as his trip to Moscow in 2001. During these expeditions, the train transformed into a residence, command center, and meeting space for foreign dignitaries, solidifying its place in the regime’s culture.
Following Kim Jong-il’s death in 2011—an event that occurred on this very train—one of its wagons was converted into a relic for display in his mausoleum in Pyongyang. This act further entrenched the railroad’s status as essential to the cult of personality surrounding the Kim family. Kim Jong Un has maintained this tradition, integrating the train into a broader mode of transportation that sometimes includes rented aircraft for overseas travel, as seen in his landmark summit with Donald Trump in Singapore in 2018.
An Armored Office – Beyond tradition, Kim’s armored train functions as a true mobile command center . Each wagon is equipped with offices, meeting rooms, satellite communication systems, and even a permanent security and medical staff. Enhanced security protocols include comprehensive armor and heavy weaponry onboard, along with sufficient space for the leader’s personal vehicle. This meticulously constructed infrastructure allows for a self-sufficient yet slow mode of transportation, with a maximum speed of approximately 60 km/h. This speed, combined with the precarious condition of North Korean roads, can extend journeys by days; Kim took almost three days to reach Hanoi during his summit with Trump.
Luxury and Ostentation – The train embodies not just protection and functionality but also the excesses associated with the Kim dynasty. During Kim Jong-il’s travels, lavish meals featuring live lobsters and international delicacies were served, with French wines flown in for various trips. Even entertainment onboard was not overlooked, with live performances from singers and actors during long journeys. Although specific records of similar indulgences during Kim Jong Un’s reign have not surfaced, South Korean intelligence suspects that he too has inherited a penchant for refined gastronomy and opulence .
The Train as a Metaphor – Ultimately, “El Sol” signifies much more than just a mode of transportation; it symbolizes the rigidity of power that may be slow-moving but is thoroughly safeguarded. The train, enshrouded in luxury for the leader yet reflective of anguish for the people, serves as a metaphor for the survival of an isolated regime . Each international journey paints an image of the green convoy traversing borders, intertwining elements of tradition, extravagance, and fear.
Kim Jong Un’s arrival in Beijing aboard this fortified conveyance not only honored the legacies of his father and grandfather but also transmitted an enduring message to the world: the Kim dynasty remains resilient against external threats while committed firmly to its rituals , even amid an era foremost characterized by hypersonic missiles and autonomous drones.
Image Source: Heute