‘Stunned by the sunny image’: What Kim Jong Un’s fashion reveals about his rule | NK News
October 04, 2024
Features

‘Stunned by the sunny image’: What Kim Jong Un’s fashion reveals about his rule

North Korean leader uses clothes both to link self to forbears and assert own identity, while betraying love of luxury

His clothes range from a black leather trench coat and white military uniform to classic communist Mao suits. The accessories encompass Russian ushanka, aviator sunglasses and expensive Swiss watches. His footwear options include trendy Mediterranean sandals.

While few would call him a fashion icon, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has established his own style since rising to power over a decade ago, sometimes taking cues from his predecessors’ wardrobes, while in other cases jettisoning tradition to follow his own tastes.

Try unlimited access
Only $1 for four weeks

  • Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
  • Year-one discount if you continue past $1 trial period
  • The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in the loop
  • Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
  • Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting, investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe now

All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.