Kim Jong-il

Kim Jong-il was the leader of North Korea from 1994 until his death in 2011, following his father, Kim Il-sung. He was known for his authoritarian regime, maintaining strict control over the country’s political, economic, and social life. Kim Jong-il promoted a cult of personality, portraying himself as a god-like figure. Under his leadership, North Korea developed its nuclear weapons program, leading to international tension. His rule was marked by severe economic hardship and human rights abuses, yet he maintained significant loyalty from the military and party elites. He was succeeded by his son, Kim Jong-un.