North Korea's iconic news presenter, Ree Chun Hee, who has earned the nickname "Lady in Pink" thanks to the pink Hanbuck dress she wears on the air, has become a news item in her own right after receiving special attention from the incumbent ruler, Kim Jong Un.
According to state media reports, the dictator gave the veteran broadcaster a penthouse in a luxury housing complex near the river in the capital Pyongyang, a modest gift for years of loyal service during which the broadcaster announced significant events in the nation's life as well as nuclear tests and the death of state ruler Kim Jong Iel.
Onn asked the news woman to continue "to be the loyal voice of the people and the Korean Workers' Party."
It is no exception in North Korea that members of the elite receive special treats and benefits by virtue of their position, but very rarely do the benefits come directly from the hand of the ruler.
In pictures published in the North Korean media, the admirer is seen giving the older broadcaster a tour of her new home, smiling from ear to ear.
"It is the wish of the party that nothing will be lacking for the national treasures of our country, like you, who have worked for decades in the service of the people and the party," On told the broadcaster.
About three years ago, Hi was retired but returned to broadcast after officials in the state leadership said that she was better suited for the job than her young successors.
Hi, 79, is one of dozens of North Korean personalities who were privileged to live in the prestigious housing complex after performing "great service to the people and the party."
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