Kim Jong Un's remarkable visit to Vladivostok: A glimpse of his unique transport
In a recent diplomatic visit that made headlines around the world, North Korean President Kim Jong Un traveled to Vladivostok, Russia in his luxurious Maybach 62S limousine. However, what really caught the world's attention was the complex process of loading this imposing vehicle onto its heavily fortified armored train. In this article, we delve deeper into this extraordinary event, highlighting the careful planning, skillful execution and broader implications of Kim Jong Un's visit to Russia.
Armored train and limousine: a perfect pair
Video footage of the process of loading Kim Jong Un's Maybach 62S limousine into an armored train stunned viewers. It was a sight to behold, a testament to careful planning and execution. The task was not for the faint of heart, as it required highly skilled drivers and specially designed ramps.
Kim Jong Un's limousine being driven into his armoured train. pic.twitter.com/YvZ3OEF68p
— The Spectator Index (@spectatorindex) September 16, 2023
A challenging feat
Loading such a huge and luxurious limousine onto an armored train was undoubtedly challenging. The inclined grades and tight fit made it a feat that highlighted the unique transportation setup designed specifically for the visits of this prominent world leader.
Kim Jong Un's encounter with Putin's limousine
During his visit to Russia, Kim Jong Un received a unique invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin – the opportunity to inspect Putin's own Russian-made limousine. Putin's kind gesture reflected the luxurious back seat of the car, which was reserved for his distinguished guest.
On September 13, 20XX, Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin set out on an inspection of space launch facilities at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Russian Far East. As captured on state television footage, their casual conversation led them to Putin's Presidential Aurus limousine, parked majestically in the driveway.
A curious invitation
At the same time, Putin extended a warm invitation to Kim while pointing towards the vehicle. Out of curiosity, Kim Jong Un accepted the invitation and climbed into the back seat of the limousine. Putin graciously joined them and struck up a friendly and warm conversation.
"Putin showed Kim Jong Un his personal car before holding a warm conversation," North Korean news agency KCNA reported Thursday. This rare and personal meeting between the two leaders underlined the diplomatic importance of the visit.
Aurus Senate Limousine
The limousine that made such an impression on Kim Jong Un was the Aurus Senate, developed by the Russian State Automotive Institute, better known as NAMI. This iconic vehicle became a symbol of Russian luxury and craftsmanship. Notably, Putin chose the Aurus Senate for his fourth inauguration in 2018, a decision that marked a departure from his previous tenure.
Kim Jong Un arrives: Maybach 62S
On the day of his visit to the space station at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, Kim Jong Un arrived in grand style in his personal Maybach 62S limousine. This magnificent vehicle was brought in his armored train on which he traveled from Pyongyang, North Korea with a substantial entourage.
An automobile enthusiast
Kim Jong Un's penchant for luxury automobiles is well documented. He is known to be an automobile enthusiast, often seen traveling in a fleet of high-end cars including various models of Mercedes, Rolls-Royce Phantom and Lexus sports utility vehicle. His selection of a Maybach 62S for this diplomatic visit to Russia only confirms his penchant for top-tier automobiles.
Finally, North Korean President Kim Jong Un's visit to Vladivostok, Russia offered a captivating glimpse into the world of diplomacy and luxury vehicles. The careful loading of his Maybach 62S limousine onto his armored train as well as his encounter with Putin's coveted austere Senate added a unique dimension to the high-profile visit. Kim Jong Un's obsession with luxury automobiles remains a defining aspect of his public image, underscoring his larger-than-life presence on the global stage.