Kim Jong Un Is Really Mad at His Weathermen

North Korean leader scolds meteorologists
By Arden Dier,  Newser Staff
Posted Jun 12, 2014 8:04 AM CDT
Kim Jong Un Is Really Mad at His Weathermen
In this image taken from video on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2014, Kim Jong Un delivers an annual New Year's Day message in Pyongyang, North Korea.   (AP Photo/KRT via AP Video)

It's a rough day to be a North Korean meteorologist: According to state-run media, Kim Jong Un is really upset about ... inaccurate weather forecasts. The leader has been visiting various meteorological facilities in the country, where he has reportedly taken employees to task for "too many incorrect" weather reports, reports CNN. It's apparently an area he has some expertise in: The state-run Rodong Sinmun paper notes Kim "gave field guidance to the Hydro-meteorological Service." His concerns apparently stem from how the weather can impact the economy.

The meteorological service needs to "provide accurate data for weather forecast and meteorological and climatic information required by various fields of national economy in good time," Kim said, though he appeared to place blame on outdated equipment and scientific method. The Washington Post notes, however, that the "strain on the faces of those being lectured is quite evident" per Rodong Sinmun's photos; CNN describes Kim as appearing "red-faced." The weather hasn't been too favorable lately: Last month state media reported North Korea suffered its worst spring drought in more than 30 years, which dealt a big blow to crops. (The weather forecasts may not be to his liking, but there is one thing Kim is excited about: mushrooms.)

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