Kim’s portrait is publicly displayed in North Korea. Here’s a look at what it means

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — The portrait of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was publicly displayed along with those of his father and grandfather for the first time, sparking speculation about the message it sends.

Portraits of leaders are at the core of North Korea’s state-sponsored cult of personality that has buttressed the Kim family’s rule since the country’s foundation in 1948. Almost all homes and public offices in North Korea must have portraits of Kim’s father Kim Jong Il and grandfather Kim Il Sung, but featuring that of the younger Kim hadn’t yet been a requirement until recently.

Here’s a look at what it means and why now:

WHAT EXACTLY HAPPENED?

On Wednesday, North Korea’s state media released a photo showing Kim Jong Un’s large portrait hung on the wall of a building alongside those of Kim Jong Il and Kim Il Sung, during his recent visit to the Central Cadres Training School of the ruling Workers’ Party.

Another state media photo showed the smaller portraits of the three Kims placed side by side at a classroom, where Kim Jong Un, seated in a chair, talked to officials who took notes of his remarks.

Longtime North Korea watchers say it’s the first time for North Korea to publicize images showing the portrait of Kim Jong Un installed together with those of the two late North Korean rulers since the younger Kim took power in late 2011.

IS KIM BOOSTING HIS PERSONALITY CULT?

Placing his portrait next to those of his father and grandfather would suggest he wants to elevate his status to a level similar to that of the past two leaders, who are the subject of a strong and loyal following and regarded like gods. By doing so, Kim Jong Un wants to announce the start of his own era, according to Kwak Gil Sup, head of One