In North Korea, becoming an official under the supreme leader Kim Jong-un is no easy task.
However, as long as one performs exceptionally and serves the country wholeheartedly, there is a chance to win the Marshal's favor.
For most officials, Kim Jong-un can converse freely and even joke around, showing a friendly side of the Marshal.
Yet, in Kim Jong-un's heart, there is only one person truly worthy of respect today, such that even when the Marshal shakes hands with him, he will instinctively bow slightly.
This figure is none other than North Korea's Cabinet Premier, Kim Tok-hun.
Born in 1962, Kim Tok-hun belongs to the generation of the 60s, not considered senior in North Korean politics, without a military background or combat experience, rising solely based on his own abilities to a high position.
His career began at the Daean Electric Motor Factory, later rapidly promoted to General Manager, and before the age of 40, he was appointed Manager of the Daean Heavy Machine Joint Enterprise.
Over time, Kim Tok-hun entered politics, successively serving as Chairman of the Kangwon Province People's Committee and Special Representative for Inter-Korean Cooperation Affairs.
In 2009, faced with long-standing electricity shortages in Pyongyang and surrounding areas, Kim Jong-il instructed the construction of the Xichuan Hydroelectric Power Station in the Chongchon River Basin of Kangwon Province, positioning it as a "pillar project for a powerful and prosperous nation."
As the leader of Kangwon Province, Kim Tok-hun naturally became the project's main leader.
During the construction process, Kim Jong-il inspected the site multiple times, personally concerned about the project's progress.
Although the General did not witness the completion of the Xichuan Hydroelectric Power Station firsthand, Kim Tok-hun promised to complete the project ahead of schedule to fulfill the General's wishes.
In April 2012, the Xichuan Hydroelectric Power Station was completed, beginning to supply electricity to Pyongyang, marking an important milestone in North Korea's economic development.
Under Kim Jong-un's administration, he proposed a strategy of simultaneous economic development and nuclear weapons development, calling for the revitalization of North Korea's economy.
As an expert in economic development, Kim Tok-hun was promoted to Deputy Prime Minister in 2014 and subsequently became Prime Minister, responsible for overseeing the comprehensive development of North Korea's economy.
Under Kim Jong-un's leadership, Kim Tok-hun conducted in-depth research at the grassroots level, visiting farms, enterprises, and construction sites, contributing to the steady growth of North Korea's economy.
His efforts earned high praise from the Marshal, reflected in his position at official events, ranking just below the Marshal himself.
Kim Tok-hun has demonstrated outstanding leadership in responding to epidemics, natural disasters, and sanctions, laying a solid foundation for the sustained development of North Korea's economy.
His achievements and status are evident not only in official circles but also in daily life, such as his extended Mercedes-Benz, demonstrating the Marshal's special care and trust in him.
With his exceptional abilities and leadership talent, Kim Tok-hun has won high respect and trust from Kim Jong-un and North Korea's leadership.
He is not only a cornerstone of North Korea's economic development but also a key executor of Kim Jong-un's governance and strategic policies.
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