How Old Is Kim Jong-il and When Was He Born
Kim Jong-il was born on February 16, 1941, in the Soviet Union, though North Korean sources list his birth year as 1942. Using the most widely accepted historical records, his age can be calculated from that date to the present day. This makes him one of the most documented figures in modern political history, with his early life closely tied to Cold War dynamics. For a broader look at how leadership ages are tracked in global politics, see this overview of world leaders and their tenures. Learn more about Kim Jong-il’s early life.
The discrepancy between 1941 and 1942 stems from official North Korean narratives and Soviet records. Most international biographical databases use the 1941 date for consistency with external documentation. This affects how his age is presented in historical timelines and age calculators. Read the Britannica entry for verified details.
Kim Jong-il’s Age at Key Leadership Milestones
Kim Jong-il formally took over leadership of North Korea in the early 1990s after the death of his father, Kim Il-sung. At that point, his age placed him in his late 40s, a common period for succession in dynastic political systems. His tenure lasted until his death in December 2011, spanning more than 17 years of rule. Explore his leadership timeline.
Understanding his age during major events helps contextualize policy shifts and diplomatic moves. For example, his 50s and 60s coincided with periods of nuclear negotiations and economic strain. See how age correlates with key decisions.
Comparing Kim Jong-il’s Age with Other Long-Serving Leaders
When placed alongside other long-serving heads of state, Kim Jong-il’s age at death was relatively young, yet his time in power was substantial. His leadership style and age at succession are often compared with figures in other dynastic or authoritarian regimes. Compare leadership tenures globally.
Age data for such figures is often sourced from official biographies, intelligence reports, and historical archives. These records help researchers and analysts understand the role of generational timing in political stability. Access detailed biographical comparisons.