N. Korea celebrates late founder Kim Il-sung's birth anniv. with cultural events

North Korean citizens tour an art exhibition in Pyongyang marking North Korean founder Kim Il-sung's birth anniversary, Thursday, in this photo released by the Korean Central News Agency the following day. Yonhap

North Korea is marking the upcoming birth anniversary of its late founder Kim Il-sung with various cultural events honoring his achievements, according to state media Friday.

The country launched a film week to mark the April 15 anniversary Thursday, along with art exhibitions, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.

North Korea observes April 15, the birthday of founder Kim, as one of its biggest national holidays, often marked by extravagant events honoring his achievements and aimed at boosting national unity.

Following a ceremony launching the cinema week at the International Cinema Hall in Pyongyang, participants watched a film praising Kim, while art exhibitions showcased works depicting his life, the KCNA said.

North Korea, however, appears to have reduced its use of the honorific term for the founder's birthday, the "Day of the Sun," in recent years, including this year, as it seems to be shifting allegiance to his grandson, the current leader Kim Jong-un.