Main content

Kim Jong-il Part 1: Birth of North Korea

We trace Kim Jong-il's rise to power and the founding of the state of North Korea.

Kim Jong-il built a rogue state with nuclear missiles trained on its enemies – all while living a life of the utmost luxury. We piece together his story, and that of the country he came to rule. Kim Jong-il is born during World War Two, while his father – Kim Il-sung – fights the Japanese and helps found the state of North Korea. After the War, son and nation grow up together, as Kim Jong-il begins his own rise to power. Historians trace Kim’s early years, while defectors from North Korea reflect on the propaganda they grew up with.

A Noiser production. This is part 1 of 3 of the Kim Jong-il story.

Release date:

Available now

50 minutes