According to a South Korean government source, North Korea started a mourning period to commemorate Kim Jong-Il's death on December 1st.

 

On the run-up to December, the North Korean regime was attempting to create an atmosphere of mourning. On the first page of the Rodong Shinmun, 'Song for Kim Jong Il’ and a memorial statement were published. The Korean Central News Agency also released a TV feature on Kim Jong Il's lifetime and a recording of his voice.

 

Following the recent North Korean regime announcement about launching a long-range rocket, it has been observed that launching a rocket is related to the commemoration of the death of Kim Jong Il because the date of Kim Jong Il's death is in between the planned launch dates.

 

The South Korean government source also added it seems that the North Korean regime has also recalled North Koreans who are in other countries to return to North Korea.

 

The duration of the condolence period is not known, but many North Korean people think that it will last for a month.

Source: Yonhap News