North gives top military personnel promotions

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North gives top military personnel promotions

North Korea's leader, Kim Jong-il, promoted 55 senior military commanders Sunday to mark the 90th birthday of his father, which falls on Monday, North Korea's state media reported Sunday.

The Korean Central News Agency reported that General Jang Song-u, 67, was promoted to the rank of vice marshal. The North Korean leader also promoted Kim Yun-sim, Kim Jong-gak and Ryo Chun-sok to the rank of general. Fifty-one other officers holding less than full general rank were also promoted.

North Korea observers said the promotions were intended to strengthen the role of the military in state affairs and underpin the leadership of Kim Jong-il.

General Jang is the elder brother of Jang Song-thaek, Kim Jong-il's brother-in-law, a party vice department director. General Jang is one of the core figures of the Korean People's Army, and he once served as director general of the Escort Bureau, which is the security service that protects Kim Jong-il.

Kim Yun-sim, who served as commander of the navy during a naval clash between the North and South in the Yellow Sea in June 1999, remains a trusted aide to the North Korean leader despite the defeat in the conflict. Kim Jong-gak and Ryo Chun-sok have reportedly led the loyalty movement in the People's Army and have taken part in party policy making and government events as representatives of the army.

by Lee Young-jong

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