Yonhap News Agency reported observations indicating that North Korea has increased the personal security level for its leader Kim Jong Un following the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The agency stated, "According to its analysis of footage from the veterans' conference held last Thursday, July 28, personal security details appeared to be carrying out their duties closely around Leader Kim."
It added that "as Kim waved to the veterans gathered in front of the National Victory Monument, he was surrounded by about 4-5 strong men. The guards were protecting Kim closely, monitoring their surroundings and appearing tense. They all wore blue-striped ties and wireless earpieces, which are considered key symbols of personal guards."
The report noted that "the guards surrounded Kim while he was shaking hands with the veterans to prevent other participants from getting too close." It highlighted that "Inspector General Kim Chol Kyu from the Cabinet was among the guards, raising speculation that he was leading Kim's personal protection along with members of his office on that day."
It was pointed out that "there have been no observed instances of Kim receiving personal protection during public activities in recent years." The agency explained that "the tightening of North Korea's personal security for Kim is viewed by some as potentially influenced by the earlier assassination of former Prime Minister Abe."
It quoted Professor Yang Moo-jin, Vice President of the University of North Korean Studies, stating, "Close protection of Kim Jong Un is a rare phenomenon in North Korea, except during his visits abroad. It is likely that the assassination incident affected the enhancement of Kim's personal protection." He added, "Considering Kim's confidence in his dominance over the country, it can be said that the decision is subjective from the security authority, preparing for any situation, and it does not seem that the decision was made upon Kim's orders."
