Pyongyang: North Korea has initiated exhibitions and public events spotlighting the leadership of Kim Jong-un's family to celebrate the forthcoming 80th anniversary of national independence, as reported by state media on Wednesday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, an opening ceremony for a stamp exhibition was held in Pyongyang the previous day to commemorate the anniversary. Both South and North Korea are preparing to observe the 80th year since liberation from Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule on Friday.

The exhibition showcases stamps illustrating the leadership of the Kim family, from founder Kim Il-sung to his son Kim Jong-il and grandson Kim Jong-un, highlighting their roles in national liberation, state wealth creation, and military strengthening, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

In North Korea, the political legitimacy of late state founder Kim is anchored in his asserted contributions as an independence hero. The regime typically leverages the liberation anniversary to reinforce loyalty to the ruling family.

According to KCNA, an additional photo exhibition celebrating the anniversary has been ongoing since last week. It features images of the founder during the anti-Japanese independence movement, significant moments from Kim Jong-un's leadership, and the 2023 launch of North Korea's first military reconnaissance satellite.

North Korean media reports indicate that workers nationwide have visited history museums and a cemetery for national heroes to honor the founder's anti-Japanese struggle. State media have also broadcast special programs highlighting his independence activities in anticipation of the 80th liberation anniversary.