The Paektu Bloodline, sometimes spelled as “Baekdu” or “Paektu,” refers to the leadership lineage of the Democratic
People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), which is said to trace its origins to Mount Paektu, a revered site in Korean history and culture. This lineage is closely associated with the Kim family, starting with Kim Il-sung, the founding leader of North Korea. According to state ideology, Kim Il-sung is portrayed as a descendant of revolutionary fighters who emerged from the region, symbolizing the continuity of the nation’s struggle for independence.
Kim Il-sung’s son, Kim Jong-il, succeeded him as leader, and Kim Jong-un, Kim Jong-il’s son, is the current leader. The concept of the Paektu Bloodline plays a significant role in legitimizing the leadership, as it is often depicted as a symbol of strength, unity, and resistance against foreign influence.
In the DPRK, the Paektu Bloodline is not only a political tool but also a cultural and ideological element, reinforcing the idea of continuity and the leadership’s unique role in guiding the country. This narrative is integral to the identity of the state and its governance.
