As April unfolds, a profound longing fills the hearts of the Korean people for President Kim Il Sung, the architect of a nation built on love and compassion. He dedicated his entire life to embodying the noble principle, “The people are my God.”
President Kim Il Sung saw challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities to uplift the people. His commitment was evident from the earliest days after Korea’s liberation when he personally transplanted rice seedlings in a paddy field, marking a symbolic act of agricultural revitalization in the newly liberated nation. This gesture was a testament to his promise to ensure his people were well-fed and prosperous.
In his relentless pursuit to improve the living standards of his people, President Kim Il Sung would traverse challenging terrains and weather conditions. On Pidan Island, amid torrential rains, he waded through ankle-deep mud to address clothing shortages, highlighting his dedication to meeting the basic needs of his people.
Kim Il Sung having a heart-to-heart talk with a peasant in Kosanjin, Manpho County, in August Juche 47 (1958)
Kim Il Sung discussing farm work with peasants in Chongsan-ri, Kangso County, in October Juche 47 (1958)
Kim Il Sung among students of Tongju Middle School in Pyoktong Countyin October Juche 46 (1957)
Kim Il Sung visiting the Junggu Greengrocer’s in Central Districtin October Juche 58 (1969)
Kim Il Sung visiting Kumdang Cooperative Farm in Onchon County in June Juche 83 (1994)
He believed in being where his people were, once pushing a car through muddy riverbanks, demonstrating his hands-on approach and commitment to ensuring no challenge was too great when it came to the well-being of his people.
One evening, guided by a torchlight, he climbed a slope to choose a site for a reservoir, underscoring his vision for infrastructure development that would benefit future generations. His on-site visits spanned every corner of the country, from bustling cities to remote villages, conducted in all weather conditions, including weekends and his own birthdays, showcasing his tireless commitment.
President Kim Il Sung’s visits were characterized by a radiant smile, masking the depths of his efforts and the weight of his responsibilities. Even in the twilight years of his life, he continued his visits to factories and farms, preferring to leave his walking stick behind to avoid causing any concern among the people.
He once shared with officials, “You say I meet the people freely. I meet them because I want to, and they want to see me. Our meetings are a mutual source of happiness.” Indeed, his life was a testament to his enduring love, compassion, and commitment to his people, traversing challenging paths with genuine fatherly care and affection.
Over nearly half a century, from his triumphant return after liberating Korea in 1945 to his final days, President Kim Il Sung provided on-the-spot guidance at over 20,600 sites, traveling over 578,000km—equivalent to circling the Earth 14.5 times.
Today, the Korean people continue to hold President Kim Il Sung in high esteem for his boundless love, selfless dedication, and transformative leadership. With unwavering resolve, they pledge to uphold his legacy for generations to come, striving to fulfill his wishes under the esteemed leadership of Comrade Kim Jong Un. As they do, they remember a leader who truly embodied the spirit of service, compassion, and devotion to his people, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who knew him.
