North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is facing widespread criticism for his continued use of imported luxury vehicles despite the dire situation his citizens face. Although international sanctions have banned imported cars from entering North Korea, Kim has been caught smuggling high-end vehicles like Mercedes-Benz and Lexus, which cost over $68,000 each. Critics argue that this money could be better spent helping the starving people of North Korea, and many global netizens are expressing outrage at his greed and blatant disregard for his people’s suffering.
Shocking sight of dozens of imported vehicles
In April 2024, when Kim visited the Kim Il Sung Military University to commemorate the 92nd anniversary of the founding of the Korean People’s Army, he was surrounded by a convoy of imported cars. Among them were 18 luxury vehicles, including six Toyota Land Cruiser 300 series SUVs, each worth $80,000. Kim also rode in an Aurus limousine, a Russian-made luxury vehicle given to him by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Other cars in the convoy included two Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS 600 SUVs, two Lexus LX SUVs, two Ford Transit passenger vans, and five older Mercedes-Benz sedans.
Ignoring sanctions completely
Kim Jong Un’s actions have drawn the ire of many, as his open display of imported vehicles seems to mock international sanctions, which are intended to isolate North Korea. Experts believe Kim’s behavior is an intentional message: “No matter how many sanctions are imposed, I can still get the luxury items I want.” Despite these violations, North Korea’s alliance with Russia has strengthened, especially around arms trade, creating a loophole for such smuggling operations.
The smuggling of imported cars into North Korea goes beyond luxury; experts fear it could be a cover for the importation of weapons-related materials. North Korea’s continued missile trade, along with its cooperation on weapons of mass destruction with Russia, Iran, and other nations, raises alarms about the true scope of its activities under the radar of international sanctions.
Wealthy citizens drive Chinese vehicles
While Kim indulges in his fleet of ultra-luxury vehicles, the majority of North Koreans live in poverty and rarely own cars. In wealthier areas like Pyongyang, cars on the streets are mostly Chinese-made. These cars, while affordable, reflect the limited options available to the population, who are left struggling to make ends meet while their leader flaunts his opulence.
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