What is special about Kim Jong-un’s armoured train?
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has once again arrived in Beijing on a visit to China in the famous armoured green train of his ancestors.
This train is not just a ride, but is considered a symbol of the identity and power of North Korea’s ruling family. This train has been used by the Kim family for decades. Kim Jong-un’s father, Kim Jong-il, and grandfather, Kim Il-sung, also avoided air travel and used to travel long distances in the same armoured cars.
In the old days, magnificent banquets were held on this train, in which French wine and fresh lobsters were served. This train is also unique in terms of technology and facilities. Because it is armoured, it can only travel at a speed of 60 kilometres per hour.
Inside the train, there are conference rooms, bedrooms, satellite phones, flat-screen TVs and a full office. It was previously reported that about 20 special railway stations were also built for the Kim family to ensure their safe travels.
Kim Jong-un has travelled not only to China but also to Russia by this train, where he met President Putin. According to state media, the train is also part of North Korea’s internal propaganda, which is presented as a symbol of the rulers’ “close relationship” with ordinary citizens.
A model of the historic train car is also kept in a mausoleum near Pyongyang, where the remains of Kim Jong-un’s father and grandfather are preserved. Thus, the train has become a walking monument to North Korean politics, power and history.
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