North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Il died last Saturday, but we only learned it today via the state news agency. Kim Jong Il was the son of Kim Il sung, appointed by Stalin as the leader of North Korea in 1948. So as the son of the country’s founder, Kim Jong-il was much more than just a national figurehead. State propaganda elevated him to a demi-god, credited with superhuman powers of wisdom, leadership and military prowess. Which is why he has been such a fascinating figure for the West, making him the object of endless parodies and jokes. Like someone said on Twitter this morning, “Kim Jong-il will be remembered for his strong performance in Team America, platform shoes, and kidnapping chefs and film stars”
Let’s not forget, though, that he was also a great teacher of journalists and the source of an amusing Tumblr or a fantastic dance music video (remember: Ain’t no party like a Pyongyang party, ’cause a Pyongyang party is ABSOLUTELY MANDATORY).
Now everyone’s talking about his younger son, Kim Jong-un, taking over. So obviously a Tumblr about him has already been created as well.








