In Pyongyang’s Central District, Gyogu-dong, People’s Unit 23, an 84-year-old woman named Choi Gil Sun often reminisces about her youth.
In August 1958, after graduating from middle school, she volunteered to work at the Mirim Farm on the outskirts of the capital. At that time, in response to the Party’s call for the Chollima Movement’s great upsurge, many young people – including middle school graduates – eagerly ventured into coal mines, forestry, power plant construction sites, and farms across the country.
At the farm, she became a pig farmer. Since livestock farming was unfamiliar to her, she initially struggled. However, by studying books and conducting research, she modernized the livestock section and scientifically managed pig nutrition and breeding, improving both weight gain and survival rates of piglets.
During that time, the livestock sector launched a campaign to increase the reproduction rate of sows, aiming for each sow to produce piglets five times within two years. Choi Gil Sun excelled in this campaign, securing the top spot. In one particular year, she managed to keep all 18 piglets from a single sow alive, which became a nationwide sensation.
Later, she was promoted to team leader, and under her leadership, her team consistently exceeded livestock production targets, earning them the titles of “Chollima Work Team” and “Double Chollima Work Team.”
In May 1964, she had the honor of participating in the 5th Congress of the Korean Democratic Youth League, which was attended by Kim Il Sung. During the event, Kim Il Sung listened to her speech about her achievements as a livestock team leader and encouraged her to continue working hard, instilling great trust in her.
Reflecting on those times, she recalls that the Chollima era was a great period created by the noble dedication of patriots united in their love for the country.
From 1973 onward, she continued contributing to the nation’s agricultural development by serving in various roles, including Chairman of the Management Committee of Oryu Cooperative Farm in Sadong District, Chairman of the Rural Management Committee of Nampo City, and General Manager of the Pyongyang Vegetable Enterprise.
For her efforts, she was awarded the title of Labor Hero and served as a deputy in the Supreme People’s Assembly from the 7th to the 9th sessions.
Following in the footsteps of past generations, many young people today are also venturing into rural areas to implement the Party’s New Era Rural Revolution Program.
Choi Gil-sun offers this advice to future generations:
“Dedicating your wisdom and passion to the country is the most noble way to live as a human being.”
