Paying a visit to the newly rebranded Pyongyang General University of Architecture on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the institution, Kim Jong Eun has ordered the cultivation of highly skilled artisans for the task of constructing a “civilized” nation.
The school, which was first established in 1953 as simply “University of Architecture,” has seen its status elevated since Kim Jong Eun came to power. This is probably due to the fact that by showing an interest in architecture, Kim can be shown to harbor artistic and cultural sensitivity, as well as an overall interest in the wellbeing of the population.
According to a Chosun Central News Agency report published on the 27th, Kim commented during the visit that “under the warm care of Generalissimos Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il the university has come to have colleges, faculties, dozens of departments, a doctoral institute and a research institute training architectural talents in various fields, stuffed with hundreds of graduates.”
He also supposedly instructed the university to create a museum onsite to show the development of “Juche-oriented architecture” and “eternally glorify the undying exploits” of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il.
He reportedly noted that it is the “firm resolution and intention of the Party to develop the university into an advanced base for building a highly civilized socialist country.” Finally, Kim agreed to act as honorary head of the institution.
Commenting on the propaganda logic behind the visit, the head of The World Institute for North Korea Studies, Ahn Chan Il noted, “By making Pyongyang University of Architecture into North Korea’s fourth ‘general university’ Kim is showing his intent to follow in the footsteps of Kim Il Sung, who did the ‘rebuilding’ of North Korea after liberation. It looks like he will continue to develop it by emphasizing its importance’.”
“From the perspective of Kim Jong Eun, who is not yet able to resolve the bread [food supply] problem, he is showing his will to bring the wind of change by the building of ski resorts, water parks and such like.”
