On the 9th, an inside source in North Korea confirmed Kim Jong Il’s visits on the 7th to Shinam Cooperative Farm and Buk Heavy Machine Complex in Yongcheon. Despite news of Kim Jong Il’s healthy state there was no further news of the events that occurred on the day.
In a telephone conversation with a reporter, the source confirmed, “Kim Jong Il visited Shinam and Machine Complex inspecting the factory scrupulously” and revealed, “According to the workers at the factory, he seemed happy with the laborers technical skills and made some detailed orders.”
When questioned of other news or if any unfamiliar mannerisms were noticed on the day, the source made a short remark, “I didn’t hear anything like that. If his health was not up to it, do you think he would have been able to go around the factories like he did.”
Further, the source said, “The whole area was under strict control because of this event and people’s belongings were inspected. Even women’s bags were searched including make-up which was opened.” The source commented, “The onsite inspections and events scheduled for the day took place until 1 in the morning.”
Buk Heavy Machine Complex manufactures heavy equipment such as electric motors and so Kim Jong Il conducts onsite visits to these locations frequently. The factory produces goods for both the military and the people.
In addition to visiting Buk Heavy Machine Complex and Shinam Cooperative Farm, Kim Jong Il made a visit to Nakwon Machine Complex in Shinuiju. It seems that he has made a full recovery following a cardiac operation.
In May, a weekly Japanese magazine ‘Shukan Gendai’ reported on Kim Jong Il’s “myocardial infarction” operation, promoting Kim Jong Il’s unhealthy state.
Meanwhile, on the 7th the Chosun (North Korea) Central News Agency reports of Kim Jong Il’s onsite inspections.
On other news, the Rodong Shinmun, the North Korean state newspaper reported on the 6th of Kim Jong Il’s visit to the 10th soldiers’ family art competition. For a while, Kim Jong Il’s outside visits had been sporadic but since June, it seems he has resumed his duties once again.
On collating news recently obtained, it seems that Kim Jong Il’s outside activities had been temporarily suspended during the month of May due to a cardiac operation. Nonetheless, following a speedy recovery it seems he has resumed his duties this month.
