Kim Jon-il's Birthday in North Korea Date in the current year: February 16, 2024

Kim Jong-il was born on February 16, 1941 (according to Soviet records) or 1942 (according to the official biography). In 1948, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea was established. His father, Kim Il-sung, became the leader of the newly proclaimed republic.

In the early 1970s, it became evident that Kim Jong-il would become the heir apparent of the DPRK. In 1991, he was named Supreme Commander of the Korean People's Army. In 1994, Kim il-sung died. Although Kim Jon-il was the undisputed heir apparent, it took him about 3 years to consolidate his power.

In 1997, he officially became the General Secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea. His other titles included the Supreme Leader of North Korea and Chairman of the National Defense Commission of North Korea. During his rule, he was the center of a personality cult.

Kim Jong-il died in 2011, but his birthday is still celebrated as a national holiday. There is one more Korean public holiday dedicated to Kim Jon-il, Generalissimo Day. It is celebrated on February 14.