North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a notable visit to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun on February 16, marking the Day of the Shining Star, the birthday of his late father, Kim Jong Il. This visit was particularly significant as it was the first time in four years that Kim paid homage at this family mausoleum, according to state media Channel News Asia and Reuters. Accompanied by his influential sister, Kim Yo-jong, and top military officials, Kim Jong Un expressed his "solemn will" to continue the "sacred struggle" for North Korea's prosperity and security. The Kim dynasty, established since the end of World War II, has cultivated a strong cult of personality around its leaders. Analysts suggest that this visit could indicate Kim's intention to reclaim the legacy of his predecessors as international scrutiny intensifies around North Korea’s nuclear ambitions, especially following recent U.S. signals advocating for complete denuclearization, as reported by South China Morning Post. During the visit, Kim was reminded of his commitment to the revolutionary ideals laid down by both his father and grandfather, emphasizing the need for national cohesion amid economic difficulties exacerbated by international sanctions. Analysts believe that Kim's return to honoring his ancestors may be a strategic move to reinforce his regime's legitimacy and bolster domestic loyalty instead of further promoting his own personality cult. Hong Min, a researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, noted that by invoking his ancestors’ legacy now, Kim aims to strengthen his leadership position. On the same weekend, Kim Jong Un also attended a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of 10,000 new housing units in Pyongyang, a key initiative outlined in his five-year plan to rejuvenate the economy. Despite significant progress being reported, with nearly 400% increases in construction efforts last year, challenges remain in delivering this ambitious plan due to ongoing infrastructure issues and economic woes, as noted by various analysts. The housing project aims to improve living conditions and embody Kim's vision of a prosperous future for Pyongyang. For more details, read at Channel News Asia, Reuters, and South China Morning Post.