People in suits: who are Kim Jong-un's running bodyguards

The world has once again witnessed how Kim Jong-un and his entourage understand the security issue of the leader of North Korea. In Singapore, Kim Jong-un's motorcade was accompanied by a group of running guards in suits. And this is not just a performance and blowing dust in the eyes. When it comes to the leader's security, North Korea leaves nothing to chance. Analyst Michael Madden explains who they are — a mysterious group of men in suits.

When Kim Jong-un travels around the country, his guards make up three lines that surround him. In Singapore, we saw a slightly more modified version of such a construction. The guards who run next to the limo of the head, and those who walk next to them, are members of the so-called Central Party Number 6 or the Main Directorate of Adjutants.

They form the security line closest to Kim Jong-un. They are selected from among the conscripts of the Korean People's Army, who thus fulfill their duties for military service. Among the main criteria for getting into the guards — young people should be about the same height as the leader of the country and have 100 percent vision. They must have certain achievements or a high ability to learn in disciplines such as shooting and martial arts.

Source: BBC

Finally, the candidate himself and his family are being scrutinized two generations ago. Many guards are relatives of the Kim family or belong to other noble families of North Korea.

As soon as candidates are accepted for service as bodyguards (it is impossible to refuse the offer), they undergo an intensive training course, which can be compared to the course of the special forces of the Korean army. This includes training in weapons, evasion techniques, and martial arts. Young people go through tough physical and psychological tests.

The guards form a protective ring around Kim Jong-un with a 360-degree view on both sides. Three to five guards, including the director of the General Directorate of Adjutants, walk or run in front and behind the leader of the country.

On the left and right side — from four to six bodyguards. It is they, almost the only people in the country, who are allowed to be near Kim Jong-un with loaded weapons.

However, the main means of protecting the leader of the DPRK is their ability to observe people next to him and eliminate any danger with their bare hands or their bodies.

Bodyguards are usually dressed in suits and ties, and drivers wear linen or leather gloves. All the guards wear headphones with radio transmitters. Nevertheless, the main methods of their communication belong to the old school — they wear special badges on their clothes to recognize each other at events, and communicate using passwords and code phrases.

Alcohol, food and cigarettes

Employees of the Command of the troops make up the second and third line of protection of Kim Jong-un. While the first line protects the leader himself directly, the guards from the Command are responsible for ensuring the security of any room where the leader is located. They perform logistical and technical functions to facilitate the work of the head of the country.

According to media observations, Kim Jong-un's delegation arrived in Singapore on three planes, two of which were occupied by his guards. Someone maintains a secure telephone connection, and someone's duties include providing the leader with food, alcohol and cigarettes.

There is also a medical department in the guard, at least two employees from which accompanied Kim Jong-un in Singapore.