Rodman in North Korea to prepare for leader’s Birthday
Former NBA legend Rodman (right) has built a bizarrely close relationship with North Korea leader Kim Jong Un.
Photo by AFP
What you need to know:
Rodman said the game is on track despite the recent execution of Kim’s uncle in a dramatic political purge. Rodman’s visit comes less than a week after North Korea announced the execution of Jang Song Thaek,
Pyongyang- Former NBA star Dennis Rodman arrived in North Korea on Thursday to meet leader Kim Jong Un and put the finishing touches on plans to bring 12 ex-NBA players to Pyongyang for a Jan. 8 exhibition game marking the leader’s birthday.
Rodman said the game is on track despite the recent execution of Kim’s uncle in a dramatic political purge. Rodman’s visit comes less than a week after North Korea announced the execution of Jang Song Thaek, an unprecedented fall from grace for one of the most powerful figures in the country. Jang’s execution sparked speculation by foreign analysts over the future of the Kim regime.
But Pyongyang says Jang’s removal has not caused any instability. Rodman’s visit could be a sign that Kim is in charge.
