The Enigmatic Journey of Kim Jong-un’s Armored Train

Kim Jong-un, the Supreme Leader of North Korea, is renowned for his infrequent travels beyond his country’s borders. When he does leave, he does so in a highly secure and symbolically charged manner, aboard his heavily fortified train known as the “Tyang-go,” or “Sun.” His recent journey took him from Pyongyang to the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia, a trip of over 1,000 kilometers that spanned approximately two days.

The Tyang-go: A Mobile Fortress

The Tyang-go is no ordinary train. It is a moving fortress designed to protect Kim Jong-un from potential threats. The train is flanked by two additional security trains: one to scout ahead for possible dangers such as explosives or ambushes, and another to guard the rear with heavily armed personnel. A helicopter also accompanies the convoy to provide aerial surveillance and emergency extraction if necessary.

The Tyang-go’s security measures are extensive. It features reinforced, bulletproof windows and hardened walls to withstand explosions. The train is equipped with anti-aircraft missiles and anti-tank weaponry to fend off attacks from various angles. Additionally, if all else fails, the train carries a helicopter for a swift escape.

Despite these robust defenses, the Tyang-go’s weight and the poor condition of North Korean railways mean it travels at a sluggish pace of around 60 kilometers per hour. The journey is further complicated by the necessity of cutting power to other railway lines when the train passes, with 20 stations across the country built specifically to accommodate it.

A Mobile Office and Luxury

Onboard, Kim Jong-un has all the amenities needed to govern while on the move. The train includes an office with a desk, laptop, and fax machine, as well as a television and satellite phone. The interior is an eclectic mix of styles, featuring white rooms with shiny wooden floors, vibrant furniture in green and hot pink, and decorative elements like flower-shaped lamps and zebra-patterned seats.

The train’s restaurant is another highlight, offering a diverse menu that includes Korean, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, and French cuisine. For entertainment, singers are onboard to provide personal performances for Kim Jong-un. Upon reaching his destination, Kim uses two armored Mercedes limousines for the final leg of his journey.

Historical Significance and Security

The tradition of traveling by train in the Kim family has deep historical roots. Kim Jong-un’s predecessors, Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, both favored train travel. Kim Jong-il, in particular, was known for his extensive train journeys, including a nearly month-long trip to Moscow in 2001. The train’s security was notably heightened after a tragic explosion in 2004, which raised suspicions of an assassination attempt. The explosion at the Yungchung station, which killed about 160 people, led to increased protective measures around Kim Jong-il’s train.

In 2009, strict security protocols were implemented to prevent photography of the train during its travels, and entire villages in Siberia were instructed to stay indoors. This was an effort to maintain the train’s secrecy, although in the age of smartphones, this level of control is increasingly difficult to enforce.

Symbolism and Diplomacy

The Tyang-go serves not only as a secure mode of transport but also as a powerful symbol of North Korean isolation and strength. Its design and usage reflect North Korea’s unique position on the global stage. The train is emblematic of the country’s self-reliance and its leaders’ desire to appear modest compared to Western leaders who travel in luxury jets.

Kim Jong-un’s recent trip to Russia, where he met with President Vladimir Putin, underscored the strategic nature of these travels. The visit was intended to strengthen ties between North Korea and Russia, particularly in light of Russia’s need for ammunition and North Korea’s significant stockpiles. In exchange for military support, North Korea seeks technical assistance from Russia in developing satellite and missile technology.

The Tyang-go’s journey to the Vostochny Cosmodrome and the ensuing meeting between Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin highlight the ongoing collaboration between the two countries. While the specifics of their agreements remain undisclosed, it is clear that the partnership has been reinforced, with North Korea officially recognizing Russian-controlled territories in Ukraine.

Conclusion

The Tyang-go, while a symbol of North Korea’s resilience and isolation, also illustrates the unique diplomatic dynamics between Kim Jong-un and other world leaders. As North Korea and Russia navigate their strategic partnership, the Tyang-go continues to serve as both a fortress and a symbol of the country’s enduring place in global geopolitics.

This version offers a comprehensive overview of the Tyang-go, its significance, and its role in Kim Jong-un’s diplomatic efforts.