Many people still remain curious about North Korea. The nation remains infamous for its secrets. But, a report published in 2005 gave us a glimpse into the private world of former leader Kim Jong Il. The report revealed a network of luxury residences, and underground passages. These were built to protect the country's leadership during a possible war. According to a report by Daily NK, there were several compounds used by Kim Jong Il, who is the father of current North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
Although, the details about these underground facilities are based partly on accounts from defectors and former associates. Hence, they cannot be independently verified.
How did Kim Jong Il build his underground network?
The report mentioned that he started developing underground facilities while his father, Kim Il Sung, was still alive. It stated that the facilities were connected through tunnels and built with security and wartime emergencies in mind.
Large public mural featuring portraits of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il.
The underground construction programme was also linked to military planning. North Korea had built tunnels and underground roads with the aim to protect important buildings and allow senior officials to move during a conflict.
Kim Jong Il's office complex in central Pyongyang was also mentioned in the report. It was a heavily fortified building made of reinforced concrete. It had thick walls and large automated gates. It reportedly said the underground passages connected the office to nearby residences.
One such route linked the office to Residence No. 15. The passage was reportedly 100 metres below ground.
What were his private residences like?
According to the report, he had several residences in Pyongyang. It included East Pyongyang Residence No. 85 and the Changgwang Mountain residence. They had large grounds, recreational facilities and strict security arrangements.
East Pyongyang Residence was described as having deer on its grounds and facilities for fishing. Another compound reportedly had entertainment facilities and concealed passage leading outside.
He also reportedly had around 10 private chalets across the nation. Other properties were located near lakes, mountains and the coast, with facilities for fishing, hunting and water sports.
What was inside the alleged wartime bunker?
The report also mentioned the Yongseong District 21 complex. It is described as an underground wartime command headquarters completed in 1983.
It has supplies intended to support operations for as long as 10 years without outside contact. However, these details have not been independently verified.
Kim Jong Il ruled North Korea from 1994 until his death in December 2011. He was then succeeded by his son Kim Jong Un.
With Kim Jong Un back in headlines recently, the account provides context for understand the secrecy surrounding the country's ruling family.