North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has once again provided education funds to Koreans living in Japan. This act marks the 113th birth anniversary of North Korea’s founding leader, Kim Il-sung.
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim sent 287 million yen, equal to about 1.99 million dollars. He delivered this money to the General Association of Korean Residents in Japan. The association supports pro-Pyongyang Koreans and runs educational programs for their children.
This yearly gesture started in 2011 when Kim Jong-un assumed leadership. Since then, he has continued sending education funds each year around April 15. That date honors Kim Il-sung’s birthday, a major public holiday in North Korea.
Last year, the North Korean leader sent 337 million yen. This year’s amount is slightly less, yet the purpose remains unchanged. Kim wants to support what the KCNA calls “democratic national education” for Korean children in Japan.
The North Korean regime has contributed education funds and scholarships on 171 occasions. Altogether, the three generations of leaders have sent nearly 50 billion yen to support this cause.
Experts believe Kim Jong-un uses education funds to build loyalty among ethnic Korean youth in Japan. These students often grow up in communities that support North Korea’s ideology and heritage.
Since last year, North Korea has allowed visits from affiliated students and officials to the country. These trips coincide with important national anniversaries and resumed after the lifting of strict COVID-19 border controls.
This year’s education funds once again highlight the regime’s long-standing outreach. North Korea continues to strengthen ties with its overseas supporters through both financial aid and ideological engagement.
By consistently providing education funds, Kim Jong-un signals that his regime remains committed to its supporters abroad.
