Kim Jong Eun is continuing the movement to consolidate his power over the military. The Chosun Ilbo has reported that the South Korean intelligence services have learned that Ri Yong Ho, a former army chief, is under house arrest in North Hamgyong Province.
Ri is apparently under surveillance in a house near a hot spring. A source told the Chosun Ilbo that, “Ri commands a lot of respect from frontline troops so it is difficult for Kim Jong-un to dispose of him.” The surveillance of Ri follows demotions, sackings, and even executions of military personnel over the last few months.
General Kim Yong Chol of the National Defense Commission has also recently been the focus of disciplinary action. According to the latest intelligence reports, the General, who was apparently responsible for leading the attacks against the Cheonan and the shelling of Yeonpyeong Island, was recently demoted to lieutenant general. Six of nine other corps commanders have also been sacked.
Kim, according to the Chosun Ilbo article, has forced frontline military leaders to sign oaths of allegiance and to agree not to steal food from local forms in an effort to instill discipline in the military in North Korea.
Source: Chosun Ilbo
