North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un, is known for his eccentric habits and extravagant lifestyle. One such example is his personal train, often described as a moving fortress. Packed with high-level security and luxury, this train is a symbol of Kim’s penchant for grandeur. Interestingly, the role of hostesses on this train is performed by a carefully selected brigade of young women, often referred to as cheerleaders, who are hired through special recruitment campaigns.
Like his father, Kim Jong-il, and grandfather, Kim Il-sung, Kim Jong-un avoids air travel due to his fear of flying. Instead, he relies on his heavily armored train for both domestic and international journeys. This train, due to its extraordinary security measures, is considered impenetrable and has earned the name “moving fortress.”
Kim Jong-un leads a lavish lifestyle, indulging in expensive wines, imported meats, and exclusive cigars. His train mirrors this extravagance, featuring state-of-the-art amenities to ensure maximum comfort. Onboard, the entertainment and hospitality are managed by a team of young, carefully selected women known as the Pleasure Brigade.
This brigade consists of hostesses who serve and entertain passengers. These women are handpicked through a rigorous campaign across North Korea. Their recruitment process includes various checks, including medical examinations by doctors, to ensure they meet specific requirements such as being virgins. In return, they are paid a handsome salary exceeding $3,000, a significant amount by North Korean standards.
A striking feature of the train is the so-called Pleasure Brigade, a team of young women selected for their beauty and charm. They are tasked with serving as hostesses and entertainers, ensuring Kim’s comfort and enjoyment during his travels. Western media has often referred to these women as “sex slaves,” though their exact role remains shrouded in secrecy.
The luxurious train was originally gifted to the Kim family by Soviet leader Joseph Stalin and has since been the primary mode of transport for North Korea’s leaders. Painted green and yellow on the outside, the train boasts white interiors. It features briefing rooms equipped with tables and flat-screen monitors.
Russian diplomat Konstantin Pulikovsky, in his book Orient Express, described his experiences on Kim Jong-il’s train. He mentioned that a variety of exquisite dishes were served onboard, including French wines, prawns, and pork. This tradition continues under Kim Jong-un, making each journey a royal affair.
Security on Kim Jong-un’s train is unparalleled. The train travels at a modest speed of 40-50 km/h (maximum 60 km/h) due to its heavy armored plating. Additional measures include three high-security trains traveling alongside it—one ahead to scout, one behind for backup, and one carrying essential personnel. To ensure a smooth journey, other trains on the route are stopped until Kim’s train passes.
Additionally, about 100 security agents are deployed to inspect and secure each station before the train’s arrival. For added security, air force cargo planes and Mi-17 helicopters accompany the train during its travel.
The train is reported to have 90 carriages, accommodating a wide range of needs, including transporting Kim’s luxury Mercedes cars. This practice dates back to his father’s time when similar measures were taken.
