North Korean leader's uncle reportedly executed
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 13 December 2013 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, North Korean leader's uncle reportedly executed, 13 December 2013, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/52e659dfb.html [accessed 5 June 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
December 13, 2013
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un
North Korea says the powerful uncle of leader Kim Jong Un has been executed for treason.
State-run media said Jang Song Thaek, who was regarded as the second most powerful man in the nuclear-armed, communist-led state, was put to death after a military trial.
The execution is being described as marking probably the biggest upheaval in the North Korean hierarchy since Kim Jong Un took power two years ago.
Earlier this week, Jang was stripped of his official positions and accused of financial mismanagement, gambling, womanizing, and drug abuse. State media called him "worse than a dog."
Jang was seen as a mentor to Kim Jong Un, helping him consolidate power after the death of his father, Kim Jong Il.
Jang was married to Kim Jong Il's sister.
Based on reporting by AP, AFP, and Reuters
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
