N. Korean Defense Chief Hyon Yong Chol ‘executed’ – S. Korean intelligence
S. Korean intelligence announces unexpected execution of Defense chief
North Korea has executed its Defense Chief, Hyon Yong Chol, by firing squad ‘using an anti-aircraft gun,’ South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) has said.
Hundreds of North KOrean officials watched Hyon’s execution on April 30, the deputy director of the NIS was paraphrased as saying to South Korean lawmakers.
News of the event was publicized by Yonhap early morning Wednesday morning, who claimed the NIS said he was punished for falling asleep during formal military events.
The alleged development follows rumors of a further execution of up to 15 officials under two weeks ago, for challenging Kim Jong Un’s authority.
“If it is true, which is yet to be confirmed, such executions would make other current and future officials and military officers less trusting of one another and of the leadership above them,” said John Grisafi, NK News Director of Intelligence.
“(This) would undermine the chain of command and organizational strength within the North Korean regime,” Grisafi added.
Hyon’s last appearance in Pyongyang’s state media was just one day prior to the alleged execution, on April 29. Prior to that, he typically appeared two to six times per month.
Hyon was minister of the People’s Armed Forces since last June, when he replaced Jang Jong Nam.
His career had ups and downs. He achieved the rank of vice marshal in 2012 but was demoted to colonel general later that same year, for unknown reasons, though he remained in his post of chief of the General Staff.
This is a breaking news story and more information will be added soon
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