In the flood-damaged areas of North Hamgyong Province, rumors are spreading that Kim Jong Un has ordered the distribution of several types of gift, including color TVs [as televisions are often referred to by North Koreans], for residents moving in to the restored houses.
A source in North Hamgyong Province told Daily NK on October 25 that the housing restorations in question are in the final stage of construction and the residents are scheduled to move in by the end of the month.
“People are saying that (the authorities) will present various household goods such as phones and color TVs to the residents when they move in to their new houses,” the source said.
Most residents, however, are quick to dismiss the rumors, doubtful that the regime is willing or able to provide phones and TVs to such a large number of households, having touted the provision of a single blanket and a few kilograms of food to each victim as ‘major gifts,’ the source added.
The rumors of further gifts are seen as an attempt by the regime to curtail complaints about Kim Jong Un’s continued absence from the region more than two months after the flooding has passed.
Even if the rumors were true, another wave of dissent is likely to precipitate, as such gifts would be financed by raising loyalty funds from citizens in other regions, rather than via operational funds held by the leadership.
It is also apparent that food and adequate shelter are more pressing concerns for most residents than expensive household appliances.
“Many of the residents have pointed out the inherent safety issues evident in houses that have been constructed in under two months, especially in a nation known to prioritize speed over quality and fundamental construction principles,” noted an additional source in North Hamgyong Province.
“The residents will go through a lot more trouble when they move in, as wallpaper is being put up even though water is still running down the walls. They are not in a position to use the appliances if living in poorly-built houses with nothing to eat.”
Regardless of the situation, the regime is reported to be preparing for a large-scale propaganda event to showcase residents moving in to the new houses, with a ceremony attended by Central Party cadres to be aired on state-run Korean Central Television [KCTV].
