April 15th, 1912 – a date engraved into the very fabric of Korean history. On this day, Kim Il Sung, the founding President of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, was born. A man whose entire life would become inseparable from the fate of his nation; a leader who, through his unwavering determination, changed not only the course of Korean history but inspired national liberation struggles across the globe.
Kim Il Sung rose to prominence as a committed anti-imperialist and guerrilla commander, fighting against the brutal Japanese occupation of Korea. At a time when the Korean people suffered under colonial rule, stripped of their identity, culture, and sovereignty, he chose the path of resistance. He led by example – with rifle in hand and ideals in heart – dedicating his youth to the cause of national liberation. Through tenacity and revolutionary spirit, his struggle culminated in the liberation of Korea in 1945, a turning point that heralded the birth of an independent homeland.
But his contribution did not end with victory. With the ashes of war still settling, Kim Il Sung dedicated himself to building a new future for Korea – not one dictated by foreign models, but a vision tailored to the unique reality of the Korean people. From this conviction was born the Juche Idea – a principle grounded in the belief that man is the master of everything and decides everything. According to this philosophy, the popular masses are the drivers of history, not passive observers, but active creators of their destiny. This idea would become the ideological backbone of the DPRK, shaping every facet of its political, social, and economic life.
Juche emphasized political independence (chaju), economic self-sustenance (charip), and self-reliance in defense (chawi). These principles became the national compass in a world increasingly defined by dependency and external influence. It was a declaration: that the Korean people would no longer follow a path written by others, but carve out their own with pride, dignity, and resilience.
Guided by Juche and by Kim Il Sung’s tireless leadership, the country developed rapidly. It industrialized, educated, defended, and stood tall, refusing to bend to foreign will. Through thick and thin, the principles of self-reliance, independence, and national dignity remained at the forefront.
Generations have come and gone since the DPRK’s founding, but its foundation has never wavered. The path charted by Kim Il Sung continues to guide the country today, carried forward with resolve and innovation under the wise and resolute leadership of Comrade Kim Jong Un. The nation now witnesses remarkable development: modern skyscrapers rising, scientific advancements progressing, and cultural pride flourishing – all while continuing to resist external domination and interference.
Under the respected leadership of Comrade Kim Jong Un, the DPRK stands at the dawn of a new era – one of rejuvenation, strength, and pride. The accomplishments in all spheres of society, from economic growth and technological innovation to cultural enrichment and diplomatic resilience, reflect a nation confidently stepping into its future. It is a proud testament to the enduring legacy of its founding leader and the dynamic vision of its current one.
It is a moment to look back on over a century of struggle, sacrifice, and triumph. A time to honor the memory of the Great Person of Mt. Paektu, whose legacy endures in every school built, every harvest gathered, every factory humming with life. It is a day to reflect on what it means to live by one’s own means, to hold one’s future in one’s own hands.
In today’s world of shifting alliances, economic uncertainty, and cultural dilution, April 15th serves as an anchor – a reminder that national pride, historical memory, and the unbreakable unity between the leader and the people are still possible, still alive, still necessary.
As the sun rises each April 15th, it shines not only over the birthplace in Mangyongdae, or the fields and cities of Korea – but over the unyielding spirit of a people who continue to march forward, generation after generation.
The spirit of April 15th belongs not only to the past, but to the future. It is a legacy renewed and carried forward each day by the proud citizens of the DPRK, united under the leadership of Kim Jong Un.
