North Korea’s successor officially announced. A senior North Korean official, ruling party member Yang Hyong-sop, gave the first public confirmation that North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong-il’s youngest son, newly appointed General Kim Jong-un, will succeed his father as leader of North Korea. Mr. Yang stated, “Our people … are blessed with great leaders from generation to generation. (We) are honored to serve the great President Kim Il Sung and the great leader Kim Jong Il. Now we also have the honor of serving young Gen. Kim Jong Un.”

Our respectful congratulations, General Kim Jong-un, for your announced appointment as we also send our best wishes for North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong-il’s continued good health to lead the nation to ward abundant prosperity and peace.