North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is building new mansions for himself or trusted family and friends at a countryside retreat and a secretive Pyongyang compound, exclusive NK Pro analysis of satellite imagery reveals.

The construction — and likely need to import sanctioned luxury goods to furnish the mansions — comes as Kim repeated demands last week that the population work harder to overcome “present hardships such as economic difficulties.” His government is also keeping borders closed to large portions of trade for the general population as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19. 

The projects both