North Korea expands Kim Jong Un idolization with mosaic murals in major cities

North Korea is actively bolstering the personality cult surrounding leader Kim Jong Un, evidenced by the widespread installation of large mosaic murals in key cities across the country. These artworks, often depicting Kim's on-site guidance or achievements, are increasingly replacing older symbols of his father and grandfather, Kim Jong Il and Kim Il Sung.

Analysis of satellite imagery and state media by NK News reveals that since 2024, at least eight major cities, including Pyongyang, Nampo, and Sinuiju, have installed these murals. Recent satellite data suggests new ones are also being produced in Rason, Kaesong, and Kanggye. In several locations like Nampo and Sinuiju, the new murals have directly replaced those honoring previous leaders, signaling a deliberate effort to consolidate loyalty and focus on Kim Jong Un.

These mural sites are being repurposed as primary venues for state-organized political events. For instance, a loyalty pledge ceremony for children was held in front of a Kim Jong Un mural in Hamhung in May. Some public squares that previously hosted statues of past leaders have been reorganized around these new murals, transforming them into hubs for rallies and demonstrations of allegiance.

The mosaics, known as 'jjokmui' murals in North Korea, are created using colored glass and tiles fired at high temperatures or processed natural stones. The first Kim Jong Un mosaic mural appeared in 2022 at the Yonpo Greenhouse Farm in South Hamgyong Province and has since spread nationwide. NK News has identified at least 39 such murals, with the actual number likely higher when considering unconfirmed or unpublicized installations.

This campaign aligns with recent constitutional changes that removed references to the idolization of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il. At major events, Kim Jong Un's portraits are now prominently displayed, superseding the 'sun images' of his predecessors. This suggests a strategic adjustment of the personality cult system, elevating Kim Jong Un to the position of 'supreme authority' while not entirely discarding the symbolic legacy of past leaders.