Love him or hate him, Kim Jong-un has held onto power in North Korea with an iron grip. While his methods are, let’s say, questionable (okay, borderline terrifying), there’s something to be learned from his relentless hold on control. Think about it: wouldn’t you like to command respect, influence people, and stay on top in your own world, whether it’s your job, social circle, or personal brand?
Let’s break down six ruthless (but oddly effective) power moves Kim Jong-un has mastered, and how you can apply them ethically in your life.
1. Control the Narrative, Or Someone Else Will
Kim Jong-un has one of the tightest propaganda machines in history. Every story, photo, and piece of news is meticulously curated to make him look larger than life.
Your Move: Become Your Own Publicist
In today’s digital age, your personal brand is everything. If you’re not controlling your own narrative, someone else will. Start by polishing your social media presence. What do your Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok say about you? Are you projecting the image of someone in control, confident, and thriving?
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2. Eliminate the Competition (Figuratively, Of Course)
Kim has a track record of removing threats, sometimes in, uh, creative ways. While you (hopefully) don’t have rivals trying to overthrow your empire, competition is real in the workplace, school, and business.
Your Move: Outwork, Outshine, Outlast
Instead of taking people out, outclass them. Be the hardest worker in the room, bring fresh ideas, and make yourself indispensable. In other words, be so good they can’t ignore you.
3. Build a Loyal Inner Circle
Kim surrounds himself with people who are fiercely loyal. They know that crossing him means game over, literally.
Your Move: Choose Your Tribe Wisely
Your inner circle determines your success. Ditch the energy-drainers and yes-men. Surround yourself with people who challenge, support, and elevate you.
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4. Master the Art of Fear & Respect
People don’t mess with Kim because they know the consequences. Fear and respect are two sides of the same coin.
Your Move: Command Authority (Without Being a Tyrant)
Set boundaries. Speak with confidence. Don’t let people walk all over you. The secret? Be assertive, not aggressive.
5. Control Resources & Keep People Dependent
Kim ensures that he has total control over North Korea’s resources, making the people reliant on him for survival.
Your Move: Become the Go-To Person
Want power? Be the person everyone needs. Develop a rare skill, build expertise, and make yourself irreplaceable in your field.
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6. Stay Unpredictable
Kim keeps people guessing. One day he’s launching a missile, the next he’s riding a white horse through the snow.
Your Move: Keep People On Their Toes
Predictability is boring. If you want to be influential, be dynamic. Take risks, learn new skills, and reinvent yourself when needed.
Final Thoughts:
While Kim Jong-un’s actual tactics are not exactly advisable (or legal), the underlying principles, control your narrative, outshine competitors, build loyalty, command respect, be indispensable, and stay unpredictable, are straight-up power moves you can apply to your life.
Which one of these strategies do you already use? Or do you have your own secret power move? Drop a comment below!