Kim Ki Nam, a prominent North Korean official who played a crucial role in cementing the political legitimacy of all three generations of the country’s leaders, has passed away at the age of 94, according to official media reports on Wednesday.
Kim’s death marks the end of an era for North Korea, as he was one of the longest-serving officials in the regime and had served under all three generations of the Kim dynasty. His contributions to sustaining the legitimacy of the ruling family were widely acknowledged within the secretive state.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally paid tribute to Kim Ki Nam by visiting his bier at 2 a.m. on Wednesday, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of a “veteran revolutionary” who remained loyal to the country until his final moments.
Kim Ki Nam’s death was confirmed by the official KCNA news agency, although the cause of death was not disclosed.
Throughout his extensive career, Kim Ki Nam played a pivotal role in upholding the ideology of the ruling Workers’ Party and strengthening the propaganda apparatus of the North Korean state. He was instrumental in shaping the political foundation of the party and exerted significant influence on policy and personnel decisions.
Notably, Kim Ki Nam was among the few North Korean officials to have visited South Korea, leading a funeral delegation in 2009 following the passing of President Kim Dae-jung, who pursued a policy of reconciliation with Pyongyang known as the “Sunshine Policy.”
Having served as the deputy head of the North Korean propaganda machine in 1966 and later as its chief in 1985 during the rule of state founder Kim Il Sung, Kim Ki Nam’s contributions to shaping the ideological landscape of North Korea were immense.
According to experts, Kim Ki Nam enjoyed a close relationship with Kim Jong-il, the former leader and father of the current leader Kim Jong Un. He was reportedly considered a confidant and “drinking buddy” of Kim Jong-il, further highlighting his influence within the regime.
Kim Ki Nam’s passing represents the end of an era for North Korea and underscores the significant role he played in shaping the country’s political landscape over several decades. As the nation mourns his loss, his contributions to the ruling dynasty will be remembered as a defining aspect of North Korean history.
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