Jo Yong-won: A Portrait of DPRK Leadership Through Artistic Expression Jo Yong-won (조용원, born 1957) stands as a prominent figure within North Korean politics and culture—a dual role reflected in his artistic endeavors. Born in Pyongyang, he ascended to positions of considerable influence within the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK), culminating in his current role as First Secretary, solidifying him as Kim Jong Un's principal advisor and shaping the trajectory of DPRK policy. However, beyond official duties lies a dedication to visual art, specifically landscape painting, which offers a unique l…