Kim Jong Un demolishes North Korean winter palace in 'unusual' move

NEW DELHI: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has taken the drastic step of demolishing several buildings on the estate of his winter palace, as revealed by satellite images. This unexpected action, first reported by the anonymous North Korean analyst “Nobody German” on X, shows a dirt lot where the blue-roofed Ryokpo Palace complex once stood, south of Pyongyang.
The main residential and auxiliary structures at the complex were likely dismantled between April 21 and April 25, as per the analysis by North Korea-focused news outlet NK Pro. An expert speaking to the publication suggested that this demolition could signal a strategic shift to use the land for military operations. This move is described as “unusual” and indicates a potential increase in the military’s influence or a consolidation of military facilities, a report in the New York Post said.
The Ryokpo Palace, also known as the winter palace of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has a relatively obscured history due to the secretive nature of the country. Information available indicates that the palace complex was situated in the Ryokpo district, which is known for being one of the coldest areas during winter in North Korea.
In recent months, Kim has accelerated his efforts to modernize North Korea's military capabilities. Last month, he authorized numerous weapons tests, including the deployment of “super-large” multiple rocket launchers and several short-range ballistic missiles. According to state media, these drills were part of the initial tests of North Korea’s nuclear weapons management and control system, highlighting advancements in ballistic missile technology, the NY Post report said.
The demolition of Kim's seasonal palace occurs amidst growing tensions between North Korea, South Korea, and the United States. Kim has officially declared South Korea as North Korea's “principal enemy” in its constitution, effectively stalling any potential reunification efforts between the two nations.