What is Kim Jong-il net worth estimated? How did he get his fortune?
Kim Jong-il Net Worth is often a topic of intrigue, given his role as the Supreme Leader of North Korea. At the time of his death in December 2011, Kim Jong-il's net worth was estimated to be around $4 billion. This substantial wealth was amassed during his tenure as the leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, a position he held until his passing at the age of 70.
Following the death of his father, Kim Il-sung, in 1994, Kim Jong-il took over the leadership of North Korea. His roles included Chairman of the National Defense Commission and General Secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea. Notably, he commanded the Korean People's Army, which is one of the world's largest standing armies. By 2009, constitutional amendments in North Korea had designated him as the 'supreme leader.' Many North Koreans believed in Kim Jong-il's almost mythical abilities, such as his supposed power to manipulate the weather, a testament to his larger-than-life persona. After his death, he was honored with titles like the 'Eternal Chairman of the National Defence Commission.'
What is Kim Jong-il net worth?
| Name | Kim Jong-il |
|---|---|
| Category: | Richest Politicians › Presidents |
| Net Worth: | $4 Billion |
| Birthdate: | Feb 16, 1941 - Dec 17, 2011 (70 years old) |
| Birthplace: | Vyatskoye, Khabarovsk Krai |
| Gender: | Male |
| Height: | 5 ft 2 in (1.6 m) |
| Profession: | Politician |
| Nationality: | North Korea |
Early Life
According to official biographies, Kim Jong-il was born on February 16, 1942, in a secret military camp, yet Soviet records claim he was born a year earlier, in 1941, in Russia. His early life was marked by family tragedies, including the death of his mother, Kim Jong-suk, in 1949 and the drowning of his younger brother, Kim Man-il, in 1947. Kim Jong-il's educational journey took him through Pyongyang's schools, eventually leading to Kim Il Sung University, where he studied Marxist political economy.
Rise to Power
Kim Jong-il's ascent to power began after his graduation in 1964, as he swiftly climbed the ranks of the Korean Workers' Party. By the 1980s, he was poised to succeed his father as North Korea's leader. In 1980, the Sixth Party Congress solidified his position with senior roles in the Military Commission and Politburo. Despite lacking military experience, he became the Supreme Commander of the Korean People's Army in 1991. His official leadership commenced after his father's death in 1994, further entrenching his influence within the DPRK.
Throughout his rule, Kim Jong-il's North Korea was known for its repressive governance, as highlighted by a 2004 Human Rights Watch report. It cited political oppression, lack of freedom, and the presence of extensive political prisons. Despite health setbacks, including strokes in 2008, Kim continued to lead, even being re-elected as chairman of the National Defence Commission in 2009.
Publications
A prolific writer, Kim Jong-il reportedly authored nearly 900 works from 1964 to 1994. His writings, preserved in North Korea's exhibitions, range from political treatises to cultural critiques, such as 'On the Art of the Cinema' (1973), reflecting his diverse interests and intellectual pursuits.
Personal Life
Kim Jong-il's personal life was as complex as his political one. He married Hong Il-chon in 1966, with whom he had a daughter, before divorcing in 1969. His second marriage to Kim Young-sook in 1974 resulted in another daughter. Despite being estranged from his wife by the time of his death, he had several mistresses and children, including his eventual successor, Kim Jong-un.
Kim's fear of flying led him to prefer train travel. A film enthusiast, his collection boasted over 20,000 titles, with a preference for franchises like 'James Bond' and 'Godzilla.' His passion for cinema even led to the infamous 1978 kidnapping of a South Korean director and his wife to produce films for him.
Death
Kim Jong-il passed away from a suspected heart attack on December 17, 2011, while aboard a train. His death led to a period of national mourning in North Korea, and his funeral occurred in Pyongyang on December 28. His body was later placed on permanent display, with his birthday commemorated as the Day of the Shining Star, a national holiday.
Real Estate
Kim Jong-il's wealth extended to his real estate holdings, which included 20 to 30 homes. These properties, ranging from a compound in Pyongyang to beach houses, featured luxurious amenities such as private train stations, swimming pools, and lakes. This extensive real estate portfolio was a testament to his opulent lifestyle.
What is Kim Jong-il's estimated net worth?
According to various sources, the estimated net worth of Kim Jong-il, the former leader of North Korea, ranges from $4 billion to $5 billion. However, due to the secretive nature of the country, it is difficult to determine an exact figure. His wealth is believed to have been accumulated through control of state-owned industries and resources
How did Kim Jong-il acquire his wealth?
Kim Jong-il acquired his wealth through a combination of inherited assets, state-controlled industries, and illicit activities such as counterfeiting and drug trafficking. He also received significant financial support from foreign governments, particularly China. His lavish lifestyle and control over the country's resources allowed him to amass a personal fortune estimated to be worth billions of dollars
Is Kim Jong-il's net worth still growing after his death?
After his death in 2011, Kim Jong-il's net worth has not been publicly disclosed. However, it is believed that his family still holds significant wealth and control over North Korea's economy. Despite international sanctions, the country's economy has continued to grow, potentially contributing to the family's wealth
What is the source of Kim Jong-il's income?
Kim Jong-il's main source of income was the state-controlled economy of North Korea, which he used to fund his lavish lifestyle and military programs. He also received foreign aid and profits from illicit activities such as drug trafficking and counterfeiting. Additionally, he had control over state-owned businesses and assets, providing him with a steady stream of revenue
How does Kim Jong-il's net worth compare to other world leaders?
Kim Jong-il's net worth is estimated to be around $4 billion, making him one of the wealthiest world leaders. However, this pales in comparison to other leaders like Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, whose net worths are in the tens of billions. Despite his wealth, Kim Jong-il's country, North Korea, remains one of the poorest and most isolated nations in the world. This stark contrast highlights the unequal distribution of wealth and power among global leaders