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Graphic shows factbox on Ri Pyong-chol, Jang Chang-ha, Kim Jong-sik, plus Kim’s current missiles.
GN35797EN

NORTH KOREA

Kim Jung-un’s rocket men

By Duncan Mil

September 15, 2017 - Three men shown celebrating with North Korea’s leader Kim Jong-un following successful missile launches are believed to be the top people in the country’s rapidly advancing missile and nuclear programme.

Ri Pyong-chol
One of Kim’s closest aides. Former air force chief was elected to National Defence Commission – most powerful government organization – in 2014. Now runs Workers’ Party Munitions Industry Department, developing conventional and nuclear weapons.

Jang Chang-ha
As President of Academy of National Defence Science, Jang’s staff procure foreign technology and equipment for weapons programmes. Promoted in July to a four-star colonel general after successful test of KN-20, using Soviet-era RD-250 engine, built in Ukraine.

Kim Jong-sik
Rocket scientist and general at Munitions Industry Department. Mastermind of Kim’s missile programme since successful launch of Unha-3 rocket – which put satellite into low earth orbit – in 2012.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 15/09/2017; STORY: Graphic News; PICTURES: Associated Press, Getty Images
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