Some time ago, I met Kim Jong-il. After the drinking session ended, Kim Jong-il called out to me as I was about to leave. When I turned around, not a trace of emotion showed on his wrinkled face. “Teacher Kim.” “In our Republic, trust no one.” His voice was indifferent, but I felt that those brief words carried a great deal of hidden meaning. “Yes, I’ll keep that in mind.” “It was a pleasure meeting you. I hope you’ll bring good news when we meet again.” After saying this, Kim Jong-il closed his eyes, perhaps from exhaustion.
“What did you talk about yesterday for Boss Kim to say something like that?”
Normally, I would have given him an answer that revealed at least some of my true thoughts. But remembering Kim Jong-il’s words, I found myself unable to speak so readily. Rather than let my thoughts show, I studied Jang Seong-taek’s expression as I answered.
“We talked about many things. In particular, he seemed deeply concerned about the people’s livelihood.”
“Ah…”
I saw Jang Seong-taek’s eyes waver slightly. I did not miss the opening. I recalled Kim Jong-il saying that he was under threat of assassination.
“He seems to trust Vice Director Jang a great deal.”
“…Is that so?”
“Even if he is the supreme ruler, you and he are family. That’s what family is like, isn’t it?”
“I suppose so.”