Since I reviewed Kate Middleton’s first public speech, it seems only fair to check out another world leader’s maiden attempt at public communication. Kim Jon-un, the 29-year-old dictator of North Korea, addressed one of his country frequent military shows yesterday. The occasion was surprising because it may signal a shift in, at least, PR from that unfortunate little country. Kim Jon-un’s predecessor enjoyed 17 years as supreme leader, and only spoke in public once. The new one apparently plans to set a different pace, since he’s only been in charge for a few months and he’s already tied his father.
The differences between the two speakers are instructive. Kim needs the practice. Where Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, was winsome and appealing, Kim, the dictator, was monotonous and rarely looked up from his text. Where Kate connected with her audience on the subject of missing her husband, Kim never seemed to connect with his audience at all. He even made the classic mistake of breaking his flow as he turned the page of his text. He shifted nervously from one foot to the other at several points during the speech. The only point at which he looked even a little animated was the end, when he waggled a forefinger at the audience as he uttered his last words.
The audience applauded wildly when he was done, but then he can have those who don’t applaud wildly killed, so that may not signal much beyond a desire not to be slaughtered for lack of enthusiasm. I recommended that Kate use a teleprompter until she gets a little more practiced. I would even more strongly recommend a teleprompter to Kim Jong-un, in order to bring his head up out of the text and to give the illusion that he is speaking to the audience in front of him.
It’s wonderful to think that even a speaker who can bump off his audience gets nervous. That should provide comfort to adrenaline-filled public speakers everywhere. The video below will give you a glimpse of Kim’s first nervous speech and a chance to glory in the realization absolute power isn't absolute — it doesn't include control over butterflies.
Where do you come up with this stuff?
Actually, I wonder if cultural differences could account for Kim’s affect – North Koreans probably don’t make eye contact (if you do, you’re sticking out and asking to get bumped off)
Nice article Dr. Nick. I am looking forward for your Upcoming DVD. Thanks
Dinos, Kim Jong-un is the leader, and he did make eye contact, just not very often or very well. And yes, there are of course cultural differences, but what’s interesting is that the basic apply around the world.
Adil — as always, good to hear from you.