Kim Jung-rin’s farewell ride
Last week, NK Leadership Watch wrote about the funeral of Kim Jung-rin. Using a video of the funeral I was able to map out the procession and solve a mystery I have wondered about for some time: Where does the DPRK hold state funerals?
First, below is a map of the likely funeral procession. It starts in Potonggang District and travels to the Patriotic Martyr’s Cemetery in the north of the city. It is probably safe to assume that most state funerals these days follow the same route. I only offer one caveat, however, it is possible state funeral processions drive past Kamsusan Memorial Palace rather than taking the most direct route:
Click image for larger version.
Below is an image of the building where the funeral was held. I am told by a North Korean defector that it is called Sojang Hall (서장구락부). It is managed by the State Funeral Committee. Its coordinates are 39° 2’13.73″N, 125°44’14.74″E.
Click image for larger version
I did some quick research with the indispensable Stalin Search Engine and put together a list of officials who have received state funerals since 1996 (all Central Committee members): Kim Jung Rin, Hong Song Nam, Pak Song Chol, Yon Hyong Muk, Ri Tu Ik, Ri Jong Ok, Kim Pyong Sik, Jon Mun Sop, Kim Kwang Jin, Choe Kwang.
There is apparently another kind of prestigious funeral in the DPRK called a “People’s Funeral,” however, I can only find one individual who received one: Ri In Mo. Indeed it appears that the “People’s Funeral” was created specifically to honor him. Read more in KCNA here, here, and here.
