Former leader of North Korea awarded highest title

North Korea has awarded its highest title to its late leader Kim Jong-il on the eve of the anniversary of his 70th birthday.

The late Kim has been given the title of Generalissimo. A series of commemorative items and tributes have been released since his death on 17 December of a heart attack at the age of 69.

The same title was bestowed on his father Kim II-sung in 1992.

This is the latest move to burnish Kim’s legacy as his son consolidates power.

The announcement came a day after a statue of the former strongman was unveiled in Pyongyang, showing him on horseback alongside his father.

The North also promoted 23 senior military officers on the orders of Kim Jong-il’s young son and successor Jong-un, who has been declared supreme commander of the 1.2 million-strong military as well as national leader.