The failure to both redenominate the North Korean currency at the end of November 2009 and then construct 100,000 residences in Pyongyang is damaging perceptions of Kim Jong Eun’s leadership, according to National Intelligence Service chief Won Se Hoon.
Hwang Jin Ha, a Grand National Party lawmaker and member of the National Assembly Intelligence Committee, described Won’s statement, which the NIS head delivered to a closed-doors meeting of the Committee at the National Assembly today.
Hwang explained, “Won Se Hoon reported that Kim Jong Eun failed with the currency redenomination and then vowed to construct 100,000 new homes in Pyongyang, but has only managed to construct 500, which is damaging his leadership.”
“Kim Jong Eun has been trying to exhibit his tough posture and influence by embarking on such military adventures as the Yeongpyeong Island shelling,” Won was cited as adding.
Discussing Kim Jong Il’s visit to China last month, Hwang said, “Won said National Defense Commission Chairman Kim Jong Il went to China and made this and that request, but there was a difference of opinion with China.”
