Kim Jong Un Statue Unveiled
Illustrative photo. Photo: The Presidential Press and Information Office, CC BY 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons
The rumor
A claim is circulating that a statue of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been unveiled. People are sharing an image allegedly showing this monument.
The claim also involves a dramatic allegation that Kim Jong Un was furious and executed a sculptor over a $1 million statue. The story caught on as a sensational viral headline combining North Korean leadership with extreme punishment.
The truth
According to the available reports, the viral image of the statue is artificial intelligence. However, reports also establish that North Korea did actually unveil a statue of Kim Jong Un this year.
The reports do not confirm whether Kim Jong Un was furious or whether any sculptor was executed over a $1 million statue, leaving those specific allegations unverified.
Where it is being claimed
The claim is being made on social media.
In short Partly true
What is true
- North Korea did unveil a statue of Kim Jong Un this year.
- The viral image of the statue is AI.
What is false
- The specific viral image showing the statue is not real.
What is not confirmed
- Whether Kim Jong Un executed a sculptor over the statue.
- Whether the statue cost $1 million and whether Kim Jong Un was furious.
Sources
- The Art Insider – Is the Kim Jong Un Statue Real? The Viral Image Is AI, but North Korea Did Unveil One This Year
- The Times of India – Did ‘Furious’ Kim Jong Un Execute a Sculptor Over THIS $1 Million Statue?| Fact Check