Famous North Korean Leaders

Pak Pong-ju is a North Korean politician who has served as the Premier of North Korea twice, from 2003 to 2007 and from 2013 to 2019. In 2016, he was elected as a member of the Presidium of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK). Throughout his career, Pak Pong-ju has been actively involved in the political landscape of North Korea, holding significant positions within the government and the ruling party, contributing to shaping the country's policies and direction.

Kim Jong Il was a North Korean politician who served as the second supreme leader of North Korea. He assumed leadership following the death of his father, Kim Il Sung, in 1994. Kim held key positions in the Workers' Party of Korea and the military, including General Secretary of the WPK, Chairman of the National Defence Commission, and Supreme Commander of the Korean People's Army. His rule was marked by repressive dictatorship, military-first policies, economic crisis, and some tentative economic reforms such as the opening of the Kaesong Industrial Park in 2003.

Kim Jong Un is the supreme leader of North Korea and the leader of the Workers' Party of Korea. He holds several key titles within the party and military, consolidating his power and influence. Kim has implemented policies focusing on the development of both the economy and the country's nuclear weapons program. He rules North Korea as a totalitarian state, maintaining a cult of personality similar to his father and grandfather. Kim has been involved in high-stakes diplomatic efforts with South Korea and the United States, with mixed results.

Kim Yo Jong is a prominent North Korean politician and diplomat. She holds significant positions within the Workers' Party of Korea, serving as the Deputy Department Director of the Publicity and Information Department. She has been a member of the State Affairs Commission since September 2021. Kim previously served as an alternate member of the Politburo of the Workers' Party of Korea. With her close ties to her brother, Kim Jong Un, she is often considered a potential successor in North Korea's political landscape.

Kim Yong-nam had a prominent professional career in North Korea, serving as a politician and diplomat. He held various key positions, including President of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly and Minister of Foreign Affairs. With his extensive experience and expertise, he played a significant role in North Korea's political landscape for several decades. Elected as a member of the Presidium of the Workers' Party of Korea, Kim Yong-nam's contributions to the country's governance and foreign relations were notable throughout his career.

Pak Hon-yong was a prominent Korean independence activist, politician, philosopher, and communist leader known for his role in the Korean communist movement during Japan's colonial rule. He played a key part in organizing the Korean Communist Party in defiance of Japanese authorities, later establishing the Communist Party of Korea in the South post-liberation. Moving to North Korea, he collaborated with Kim Il Sung during the Korean War, but ultimately faced a tragic fate, being executed on false charges of being an American spy amidst political turmoil.

Hyon Yong-chol was a North Korean general and politician affiliated with the Workers' Party of Korea. He served as the Minister of Defence from 2014 to 2015, holding a prominent position within the North Korean government. Known for his military background and leadership roles, Hyon Yong-chol played a key role in the country's defense strategy during his tenure. However, he was reportedly removed from his position in 2015, signaling a significant change in the political landscape within the regime.

Kim Il Sung was a North Korean politician who founded and led the country as Supreme Leader from its establishment in 1948 until his death in 1994. He held key positions such as Premier and President, leading the Workers' Party of Korea from 1949 to 1994. Under his leadership, North Korea became a totalitarian socialist dictatorship with a centrally planned economy, maintaining close relations with the Soviet Union. He initiated the invasion of South Korea in 1950, resulting in the Korean War and a subsequent ceasefire in 1953.

Alejandro Cao de Benós de Les y Pérez is a Spanish political activist known for his involvement with North Korea. He serves as a Special Representative of the Foreign Ministry of North Korea and is the founder and president of the Korean Friendship Association (KFA). Cao de Benós has been an advocate for North Korea since 1990 and holds honorary memberships in the ruling Workers' Party of Korea and the Korean People's Army. He has also been charged by the US Department of Justice for conspiring to violate United States sanctions on North Korea.

Ri Yong-gil is a prominent North Korean military officer serving as a vice chairman of the Central Military Commission of the Workers' Party of Korea and the Chief of the General Staff. With a distinguished career in the military, he holds key leadership positions that involve overseeing strategic military operations and decisions. Known for his expertise and experience, Ri Yong-gil plays a crucial role in shaping and executing military policies in North Korea, contributing significantly to the country's defense and security strategies.

Pak Jong-chon is a North Korean military officer who has experienced various promotions and demotions within the Korean People's Army. He has held positions such as Chief of Staff of the General Staff, Marshal of the Korean People's Army, and vice chairman of the Central Military Commission of the Workers' Party of Korea. Pak has also been involved in high-profile events alongside Kim Jong Un, displaying his significance within the North Korean power hierarchy. His career has been marked by fluctuations in rank and responsibilities, showcasing his dynamic role in the country's military and political landscape.

Ri Pyong-chol is a prominent figure in North Korean military and political circles, known for his close relationship with Kim Jong Un. With a background in the Korean People's Army Air Force and extensive experience in senior Party positions, he has served as a key advisor to Kim during times of crisis. Despite facing sanctions from the U.S. Treasury Department, Ri has held significant roles within the Workers' Party of Korea, including membership in the Politburo and positions in the Central Military Commission.

O Jin-u was a prominent North Korean general and politician who played a significant role in the country's history. He was a close associate of Kim Il Sung and served under him in various capacities, including as commander of Kim's bodyguard. O was a founding officer of the Korean People's Army, fought in the Korean War, and held a high-ranking position as Vice-Chairman of the National Defence Commission. He was considered one of the most powerful figures in North Korea, known for his hardline stance and strong support for the country's nuclear program.

Kim Jong Suk was a Korean anti-Japanese guerrilla and Communist activist known for her contributions to the resistance against Japanese occupation. She played a crucial role in supporting and aiding Kim Il Sung's guerrilla forces, demonstrating her dedication to the Communist cause. Kim Jong Suk's involvement in the Korean independence movement and her efforts as a revolutionary fighter made her a respected figure in North Korean history. Her legacy as a committed activist and supporter of the Communist ideology continues to inspire many in North Korea.

Hwang Sun-hui was a prominent North Korean politician with a distinguished career in the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK). She held various high-ranking positions within the party, including serving in the Supreme People's Assembly and the Central Committee of the WPK. Hwang was closely affiliated with the Korean Revolution Museum, starting in 1965, and eventually became its director in 1990. Throughout her professional life, she made significant contributions to the political landscape and cultural heritage of North Korea.

Thae Yong-ho is a South Korean politician and former diplomat with a background in international relations. He served as North Korea's deputy ambassador to the United Kingdom before defecting to South Korea in 2016. Thae studied abroad in Beijing, China, for a decade, gaining valuable insights into international affairs. Elected as a member of the National Assembly for the Gangnam district of Seoul in 2020, he represents the People Power Party and continues to contribute to the political landscape in South Korea.

Yang Hyong-sop was a prominent North Korean politician who held various significant positions in the government. He served as Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly and Chairman of the Supreme People's Assembly for over a decade. Following this, he took on the role of Vice President of the Presidium of the SPA for more than two decades. Throughout his professional life, Yang Hyong-sop played a key role in the political landscape of North Korea, contributing to the governance and decision-making processes of the state.

Hwang Pyong-so is a North Korean general and politician who rose through the ranks to become Vice Marshal in the Korean People's Army. He held key positions within the Workers' Party of Korea, including the Presidium and the State Affairs Commission. Hwang gained recognition for his role in the Organization and Guidance Department, known as the organization's éminence grise. He was also appointed as the chief of the General Political Bureau of the KPA, a significant military position. Despite facing punishment at one point, he was later rehabilitated and continued to play a prominent role in North Korean government affairs.

Jang Song-thaek was a North Korean politician who held significant influence within the government. He was a vice-chairman of the National Defence Commission, a position regarded as second only to the Supreme Leader. Jang was believed to have assumed de facto leadership over North Korea during periods when Kim Jong Il's health was deteriorating and after his death. He was considered a key policy adviser to Kim Jong Un and had been promoted to a four-star general around the time of Kim Jong Il's passing.

Kim Yong-chol is a North Korean general and politician with a significant career in intelligence and political affairs. He served as the director of the Reconnaissance General Bureau from 2009 to 2016, overseeing the country's primary intelligence service. He also held key positions within the Workers' Party of Korea, serving as the head of the United Front Department and as vice chairman for South Korean affairs. Kim Yong-chol's professional life has been marked by his involvement in intelligence operations and high-level political strategy within North Korea.

Pak Thae-song is a prominent North Korean politician who has held key positions within the Workers' Party of Korea. He served as the Chairman of the Supreme People's Assembly from 2019 to 2023, demonstrating his leadership and influence within the government. Additionally, as a Vice Chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea, Pak Thae-song plays a significant role in shaping the political landscape of North Korea. His professional life is characterized by his dedication to serving the party and the government in various high-ranking capacities.

Jo Myong-rok was a high-ranking North Korean military officer, holding the rank of Chasu (Vice Marshal). He served as the commander of the air defense forces before being appointed as the first vice-chairman of the National Defence Commission of North Korea and Director of the Korean People's Army General Political Bureau in 1998. Throughout his professional life, Jo Myong-rok played crucial roles in the military and political spheres of North Korea, showcasing leadership and strategic capabilities in various key positions.

Kim Chon-hae was a prominent Zainichi Korean figure who played key roles in both Japan and North Korea. He was a leading member of the Japanese Communist Party and founder of the pro-communist Chōren, which later evolved into the modern Chongryon. Kim's influence led to the organization's shift towards leftist ideologies. He later moved to North Korea and held significant positions within the Workers' Party of Korea, contributing to shaping the political orientation of the league he was part of until his death in 1969.

Kim Kyong-hui is an influential figure in North Korean politics, serving as Secretary for Organization of the Workers' Party of Korea. With a background in the WPK Light Industry Department, she held the position of director for over two decades. Known for her close relationship with her brother, the late leader Kim Jong Il, she was a key member of his inner circle of trusted advisors. Her professional career has been marked by her involvement in party organization and leadership roles within the Workers' Party of Korea.

Kim Sol-song has held various significant roles within North Korea's political landscape, including serving in the propaganda department and overseeing literary affairs. She was responsible for managing her father Kim Jong Il's security and schedule, accompanying him on official visits. Sol-song's education in economics at Kim Il-sung University and potential studies in Paris highlight her academic background. She has been praised for her intelligence and beauty, and her professional demeanor is characterized by dedication and competence in carrying out her duties efficiently and effectively.

Pak Song-chol, also known as Park Sung-chul, was a prominent North Korean politician who held key positions in the government. He served as Premier of North Korea from 1976 to 1977, following his appointment after Kim Il. Prior to his premiership, he had a long tenure as the foreign minister from 1959 to 1970. Pak Song-chol played a significant role in shaping North Korea's foreign policy and diplomatic relations during his time in office, demonstrating strong leadership and dedication to his country.

Son Jong-nam was a North Korean defector and Christian missionary known for his courageous work advocating for religious freedom and human rights in North Korea. He dedicated his life to spreading the message of Christianity and helping fellow defectors escape persecution. Despite facing constant threats and dangers, he remained steadfast in his mission, ultimately paying the ultimate price for his beliefs when he was arrested and tragically died in a Pyongyang prison in 2008. Son Jong-nam's legacy continues to inspire many around the world.

Vice Marshal Ri Yong-ho was a prominent North Korean military officer known for his roles as Chief of the General Staff of the Korean People's Army and a member of the Presidium of the Workers' Party of Korea. He held these positions from 2009 to 2012, showcasing his leadership and strategic capabilities within the country's military and political spheres. Ri Yong-ho's professional life was characterized by his influential roles in shaping North Korea's defense strategies and political landscape during his tenure.

Kim Yong Ju was a North Korean politician who rose through the ranks of the Workers' Party of Korea, holding key positions such as chief cadre, vice-director, and director of the WPK Organization and Guidance Department. He served as a member of the WPK Central Committee, Organizing Secretary, and WPK Politburo member. Despite being widely believed to be Kim Il Sung's successor, he fell out of favor in 1974 during a power struggle with Kim Jong Il. Later in his career, he held ceremonial positions within the North Korean government until his death in 2021.

Ri Su-yong, also known as Ri Chol, is a North Korean diplomat and politician. He served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Korea from April 2014 to May 2016. Ri has extensive diplomatic experience, having served as a diplomat to Switzerland and represented North Korea at the United Nations mission in Geneva. He made history as the third North Korean foreign minister to speak before the United Nations General Assembly, showcasing his significant role in international relations and diplomacy on behalf of North Korea.

Kim Tok Hun is a prominent North Korean politician currently serving as the premier of North Korea and a full member on the Presidium of the Politburo of the Workers' Party of Korea. He has held various significant positions within the party, including vice premier, member of the WPK Central Committee, and head of the Cadre Affairs Department. With a career spanning several years, Kim's influence and responsibilities have continued to grow, culminating in his appointment as the premier in August 2020.

Kim Su-gil is a prominent North Korean general and politician known for his extensive military career. He has held various high-ranking positions within the Korean People's Army, Ministry of People's Armed Forces, and the Worker's Party of Korea. Kim has been involved in significant events such as the purge and execution of Jang Song-thaek. He is a close aide of Kim Jong-un and has served on key committees and commissions within the North Korean government. Kim's professional trajectory showcases his influence and importance within the political and military spheres of North Korea.

Choe Ryong-hae is a prominent North Korean politician and military officer who holds key positions in the government and ruling party. He serves as Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly and First Vice President of the State Affairs Commission. He is also a member of the Presidium of the Politburo and Vice Chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea. Choe has been a significant figure in North Korea, serving as Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un's military second-in-command and currently ranking as the third top official in the country.

Hyon Chol-hae was a prominent North Korean military officer and politician with strong ties to the ruling Kim family. He served as Kim Il Sung's bodyguard during the Korean War and later held the position of deputy director of the General Political Department reporting directly to Kim Jong Il. In 2016, he was elevated to the prestigious rank of Marshal of the Korean People's Army. His career was marked by significant responsibilities, demonstrating his loyalty and close relationship with North Korea's top leadership.

Kim Jae-ryong is a North Korean technocrat and politician who served as Premier of North Korea from April 2019 to August 2020. He is a senior official within the Workers' Party of Korea and has been serving as the director of the Organization and Guidance Department since 2020. Additionally, he holds a position as a deputy to the Supreme People's Assembly. Kim Jae-ryong's professional life is marked by his significant roles in government leadership, demonstrating his expertise in policy-making and governance within the North Korean political landscape.

So Kwan-hui was a North Korean politician who served as the Minister of Agriculture. He faced accusations of spying for the United States, intentionally sabotaging North Korean agriculture, embezzling funds, and being a South Korean spy. These allegations led to his public execution by firing squad. His downfall was part of a larger purge that targeted officials accused of collaborating with South Korean intelligence. Kim Chol-man was speculated to have taken over So Kwan-hui's role in managing the agriculture portfolio after his execution.

Choe Hyon, also known as Sai Ken, was a North Korean general and politician with a significant role in the anti-Japanese resistance and the Korean People's Army. He was a key military leader in the armed resistance in Manchuria and led troops in the Battle of Pochonbo. Despite Kim Il Sung being chosen as the leader of North Korea, Choe held important positions in the military and politics, including commanding the KPA II Corps during the Korean War and serving as Minister of People's Armed Forces.

Hwang Jang-yop was a prominent North Korean politician who held the position of Chairman of the Supreme People's Assembly from 1972 to 1983. He played a crucial role in shaping Juche, the state ideology of North Korea. In 1997, Hwang defected to South Korea, becoming the highest-ranking North Korean official to defect. His defection marked a significant event in inter-Korean relations and shed light on the inner workings of the secretive North Korean regime.

O Kuk-ryol was a prominent North Korean military general who served as the Chief of General Staff of the Korean People's Army and as vice-chairman of the National Defence Commission. Known as a close ally of Kim Jong Il, he played a significant role in North Korean politics and military affairs. O was a key figure in leading various programs including cyberwarfare, counterfeiting, and nuclear weapons development. Foreign observers considered him to be the second most powerful man in North Korea, highlighting his influence and importance within the regime.

Jo Yong-won is a prominent North Korean politician, serving as a deputy chief of the Workers' Party of Korea's Secretariat under General Secretary Kim Jong Un. He has held various high-ranking positions within the party, including as a vice director of the Organization and Guidance Department and a member of the Central Committee. Jo is known for his close relationship with Kim Jong Un, often accompanying him on official engagements. Despite facing international sanctions for his involvement in censorship activities, Jo remains a key figure in North Korean politics and a trusted confidant of the country's leader.

Jong Kyong-thaek is a prominent North Korean politician who held key positions within the government and the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK). He notably served as the Minister of State Security from 2018 to 2022, demonstrating his influence and power within the regime. Additionally, Jong Kyong-thaek was involved in high-level decision-making as a member of the Central Military Commission of the WPK, an alternate member of the Politburo of the WPK, and a member of the State Affairs Commission of North Korea.

Ri Ul-sol was a prominent North Korean politician and military official, known for his significant contributions to the administrations of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il. Rising to the rank of marshal of the Korean People's Army, he held the crucial position of Commander of the Guard, ensuring the safety of top North Korean leaders and their families. His role in protecting and securing the leadership earned him a reputation as a trusted and skilled figure within the regime's military and political circles.

Kim Chaek was a prominent North Korean revolutionary, military general, and politician known for his significant contributions to the country's history. He played a crucial role in the anti-Japanese resistance movement during the colonial era and later became a key figure in the Korean People's Army. Kim Chaek's leadership and strategic military planning were instrumental in various battles and campaigns, earning him a reputation as a skilled and dedicated patriot. His legacy continues to inspire generations of North Koreans.

Kim Yong-chun was a prominent figure in North Korean military and politics. He served as a leader in the North Korean military, holding the rank of Chasu (Vice Marshal) and serving as the Minister of People's Armed Forces. Additionally, he was Vice Chairman of the National Defense Commission of North Korea and held a minor post within the Workers Party. His professional life was characterized by his significant roles in the military and political spheres of North Korea, showcasing his influence and authority within the regime.

Kim Yong-bom was appointed Secretary of the North Korean Branch Bureau of the Communist Party of Korea following the assassination of Hyon Chun-hyok in 1945. This marked Kim as the inaugural leader of what would evolve into the present-day Workers' Party of Korea. His tenure as Secretary was notable for his organizational efforts and strategic leadership in shaping the early foundations of the Workers' Party of Korea. Kim played a crucial role in the party's formative years, contributing significantly to its development and establishment.

Hong Song-nam was a prominent North Korean politician with a diverse and influential career. He held various high-ranking positions within the North Korean government, including serving as Premier from 1998 to 2003. Throughout his career, he worked in roles such as Minister of Heavy Industry, Deputy Chairman of the Administrative Council, Chairman of the State Planning Commission, and Vice Premier. His contributions spanned multiple sectors, including industry, planning, and governance, showcasing his expertise and leadership within the political landscape of North Korea.

Kim Chol-man was a prominent North Korean politician and military official known for his roles in various key committees and organizations such as the 6th Central Military Commission, the 6th Politburo, and the Second Economic Committee. He played a significant role in advancing the North Korean munitions industry, which served as a cornerstone of the country's economy. While his influence waned in his later years due to retirement from major positions, he left a lasting impact on North Korean politics and military affairs.

Thae Jong-su is a prominent North Korean politician who has held various key positions within the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and the State Affairs Commission of North Korea. He has served as a Vice Chairman of the WPK, director of the Munitions Industry Department, and as a member of the Central Committee and Politburo of the WPK. Thae's political career began in the late 1960s, and he has been recognized for his managerial expertise and technocratic leadership style. He has also been elected to the Supreme People's Assembly and held positions in the Central Military Commission and Presidium of the SPA.

Choe Chang-ik was a prominent Korean politician during the Japanese colonial era. He actively participated in the Korean independence movement and was known by various names. His professional life was characterized by his dedication to fighting for Korean independence and advocating for the rights of his people. Choe Chang-ik's political career was marked by his leadership and commitment to the cause of Korean sovereignty, making significant contributions to the struggle against Japanese colonial rule.

Kang Sok-ju was a prominent North Korean diplomat and politician known for his expertise in handling the country's relations with the United States. He held various key positions within the Korean Workers' Party and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including serving as First Vice Foreign Minister for a significant period. Kang played a crucial role in negotiating the Agreed Framework with the United States in 1994 and was later promoted to Vice Premier of the North Korean Government overseeing foreign policy. He was described as a confidant of leader Kim Jong-il.

Choe Yong-gon was a prominent figure in North Korea, serving as the Supreme Commander of the Korean People's Army and the country's defense minister during the late 1940s and 1950s. He played a crucial role in shaping North Korea's military strategy and defense policies during this period. Later, he transitioned to a political role, becoming the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly, where he continued to influence the country's governance and legislative processes until the early 1970s.

Ho Ka-i was a prominent Soviet political operative and leader in North Korea. He played a crucial role as the second vice-chairman of the DPRK Politburo, overseeing the Soviet Korean faction within the early political framework of North Korea. Known for his influence and leadership, Ho Ka-i was a key figure in shaping the political landscape of North Korea. Despite his significant role, he faced a tragic end when he allegedly took his own life in Pyongyang, leading to his replacement by Pak Chang-ok.

Kim Chol served as a Vice Minister in the North Korean Army before being purged and executed in a highly publicized manner, allegedly for engaging in inappropriate behavior during the period of mourning for Kim Jong-il. Reports indicated that he was killed by mortar bombardment, a departure from the usual firing squad method. Kim was one of 14 high-ranking officials who were purged during Kim Jong-un's efforts to solidify his power, highlighting the political volatility within the North Korean regime.

Choe Sang-gon is a prominent politician in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. He has held various important positions within the government, including serving as Minister of Higher Education and as the President of Kim Il-sung University. Choe has been a member of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea and the Supreme People's Assembly. His academic achievements include receiving a Ph.D. and being appointed Chairman of the National Science and Technology Committee. Choe's career highlights his significant contributions to the political and educational sectors in North Korea.

Paek Nam-sun was a prominent figure in North Korean politics, serving as the Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1998 until his passing. He was known for his active involvement on the international stage, making him one of the few North Koreans to regularly attract global attention. Throughout his professional career, Paek played a key role in representing North Korea in diplomatic matters, engaging with foreign counterparts, and shaping the country's foreign policy strategies. His contributions and influence in international relations left a lasting impact on North Korea's foreign affairs landscape.

Ho Dam was a prominent North Korean politician who served as the Foreign Minister from 1970 to 1983. He was a member of the ruling Politburo and chairman of the Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of the Fatherland. Notably, he was the first senior North Korean official to visit the United States in 1977. After leaving the Foreign Minister's position, he became the secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea. He also served as the chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly. Ho Dam passed away in 1991 after a prolonged illness.

Kim Yong-sun was a prominent North Korean politician who held key positions within the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and the Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of the Fatherland. He was known for his involvement in high-level diplomatic meetings, particularly in relation to North Korea's accession to the United Nations. Kim played a crucial role in planning the first Inter-Korean summit in 2000 and visited South Korea as part of an official delegation. Despite facing setbacks such as internment and demotion, his career benefited from his connections with Kim Jong-il and Kim Kyong-hui.

Pak Jae-gyong is a prominent North Korean politician and soldier, holding the rank of general in the Korean People's Army (KPA). He serves as a Vice Minister in the Ministry of People's Armed Forces and is a full member of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK). Additionally, Pak is a delegate of the 12th Supreme People's Assembly (SPA). Notably, he is one of the two surviving commandos from a group of 31 sent to assassinate South Korean president Park Chung Hee in the Blue House raid in 1968.

Nam Il was a prominent Russian-born North Korean military officer who played a crucial role in the Korean Armistice Agreement as a co-signer. With a distinguished career in the military, he held various high-ranking positions and contributed significantly to the strategic decisions and operations of the North Korean armed forces. His leadership skills and expertise were instrumental in shaping the military landscape during the Korean War era. Nam Il's dedication and commitment to his country's defense and security made him a respected figure in both military and diplomatic circles.

Ri Yong-ho was a prominent North Korean politician and diplomat, serving as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2016 to 2020. He was known for his skillful negotiation abilities, particularly in discussions related to North Korea's nuclear program, including leading talks at the six-party negotiations. Ri had a distinguished diplomatic career spanning over 30 years, with notable roles such as ambassador to the United Kingdom. He held key positions within the Workers' Party of Korea and the Supreme People's Assembly, showcasing his significant influence within North Korea's political landscape.

Choe Son-hui is the Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Korea, the first woman to hold the position. She has a strong background in diplomacy, particularly in North Korea-United States relations and nuclear issues. Choe is fluent in English and has extensive experience in high-level positions within the North Korean foreign ministry. She has been involved in various diplomatic efforts, including the six-party talks and Washington-Pyongyang dialogue. Choe's involvement in key summits and negotiations has showcased her skills in international diplomacy and negotiation.

Ri Ryong-nam is a North Korean politician with a background in economic affairs. He has held various positions, including serving as Minister of External Economic Relations, Vice Premier of the Cabinet, and a member of the Supreme People's Assembly Foreign Relations Committee. Ri has also been involved in international relations, being elected to the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea and serving as the DPRK's Ambassador to China since February 2021. He has occupied roles in trade promotion, economic affairs, and diplomatic relations throughout his career.

Kim Yong-dae is a North Korean politician who has held various leadership positions within the Korean Social Democratic Party, including chairman and vice chairman. He has been a member of the Supreme People's Assembly since the 1990s and has served on committees related to foreign affairs and parliamentary friendship groups. Kim has also interacted with international figures such as Ted Turner and has been involved in joint statements with South Korean representatives. He received the Order of Kim Jong Il in 2012 for his contributions.

Ri Kun-mo was a North Korean politician who served as Prime Minister from 1986 to 1988. He succeeded Kang Song-san in this role before being replaced due to reported poor health. Following his tenure as Prime Minister, he was nominated as Chief Secretary for North Hamgyong Province but was later removed from this position. Ri Kun-mo's professional life was marked by his service in key government roles, including as Prime Minister and Chief Secretary, until his eventual removal and presumed passing in 2001.

Kim Jong-gwan is a North Korean politician and military officer who has held various significant roles in the country's government and armed forces. He has served as the Minister of People's Armed Forces and as a General of the Korean People's Army. Kim has been involved in key committees and assemblies, showcasing his influence and leadership within the Workers' Party of Korea. With a background in commanding the General Construction Bureau, Kim's professional life highlights his commitment to military and political endeavors in North Korea.

Hong Myong-hui was a Korean novelist known for his work during the colonial period. He played a significant role in the 3.1 Movement and was actively involved in Korean nationalist groups like Singanhoe. He later co-founded the Democratic Independent Party and served as its chairman. Following the Korean War, he held important positions in North Korea. Hong's contributions to literature and politics have left a lasting impact, and his legacy continues through his grandson, also a prominent North Korean author.

Choe Yong-gon was a prominent figure in North Korea, serving as one of the vice-premiers and deputy minister of construction and building material industries. He played a crucial role in the country's economic development and infrastructure projects. However, his career took a drastic turn when he reportedly disappeared from public life in late 2014. Reports later surfaced suggesting that he was executed in 2015 for opposing the forestry policies of North Korea's leader, Kim Jong-un.

Kwon Yong-jin is a North Korean politician and military officer who has held prominent positions within the Korean People's Army. He served as the director of the General Political Bureau of the KPA from January 2021, succeeding Kim Su-gil, until 2022. In February 2021, he was promoted to the rank of Vice Marshal alongside Minister of People's Armed Forces Kim Jong-Gwan. However, in February 2022, Kwon Yong-jin was seen in a KCTV video being demoted to the rank of General from his previous position as Vice Marshal.

Kim Il-chol was a prominent North Korean military officer who held key positions in the country's defense sector. He graduated from prestigious institutions, including the Mangyongdae Revolutionary School and the Soviet Union Naval Academy. With a background in naval operations, he rose to become the commander of the Korean People's Navy and eventually served as the Minister of the People's Armed Forces. Kim's career highlights include participation in significant inter-Korean defense meetings and being recognized with prestigious military honors. His tenure ended in 2010 due to age reasons, and he passed away in 2023.

Pak Yong-il was a prominent North Korean politician who held several significant positions in the government. He served as the chairman of the Central Committee of the Korean Social Democratic Party and as the vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly. Pak was actively involved in various committees and organizations, including the Peace and Unity Committee and the Korean Red Cross. He played a key role in negotiations and represented North Korea in important diplomatic matters. Pak's leadership and contributions to North Korean politics were notable until his passing in September 2022.

Kim Kyung-cheon was a prominent figure in the Korean independence movement, actively involved in advocating for Korean independence from Japanese colonial rule. He played a key role in organizing and leading military efforts against the Japanese occupation, demonstrating strong leadership and strategic skills. Kim Kyung-cheon's dedication to the cause of Korean independence inspired many others to join the resistance movement. He was known for his bravery and commitment to the fight for Korean sovereignty, leaving a lasting impact on the history of Korea.

Jon Pyong-ho was a prominent North Korean officer and politician who served as the Chief Secretary of the Korean Workers Party Committee of the North Korean Cabinet and director of the DPRK Cabinet Political Bureau. Known as the 'Chief architect of North Korea's nuclear programme,' Jon played a crucial role in the country's defense industry for over four decades. He oversaw the development of long-range ballistic missile programs, facilitated North Korea's first nuclear test, and brokered deals for critical technology exchange. Jon was a general of the Korean People's Army and a close adviser to Kim Jong-il.

Ri Son-gwon is a North Korean politician and diplomat known for his roles as Chairman of the Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of the Fatherland and Minister of Foreign Affairs. He has led high-level inter-Korean talks and served as a Senior Colonel in the Korean People's Army. Ri was identified as a potential successor to Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho and later elected as a member of the Politburo of the Workers' Party of Korea. In June 2022, he was appointed as the head of the United Front Department, succeeding as Minister of Foreign Affairs by Choe Son-hui.

Ryu Mi-yong was the chairwoman of the North Korean Chondoist Chongu Party and a standing committee member of the 10th Supreme People's Assembly. She gained recognition for defecting from South Korea to North Korea. Throughout her professional life, she played a significant role in the political landscape of North Korea, particularly within the Chondoist Chongu Party. Her position as chairwoman and committee member showcased her influence and involvement in shaping policies and decisions within the North Korean political sphere.

Kang Song-san was a prominent North Korean politician who served as Premier of North Korea in two separate terms, from 1984 to 1986 and then again from 1992 to 1997. He held various roles within the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea, including becoming an instructor in 1955. Kang's political career saw him ascend to significant positions such as Vice Premier, member of the Politburo, and ultimately Prime Minister in 1984. He was also recognized with the Order of Kim Il Sung in 1982 before his passing in 2000.