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North Korea’s leader Kim Jong-un has ordered an increase in security at such sites to stop more “hostile elements” deface the statues and murals. Increasing numbers of bronzed figures and paintings have been produced in honour of the three Kim leaders as the current despot tries to piggy-back on the popularity of previous rulers. But with famine and starvation frequently sweeping the country, citizens are furious at the imbalance in the country and there is a growing anger at Kim and his one-party government. In particular, citizens are frustrated at the increased focus on nuclear weapons and war when they and their families are going hungry and have taken aim at the monuments in protest.

GETTY North Korea civil war: Kim Jong-un is increasing security at high-profile sites

One citizen told a South Korea-based news agency security lighting was now being used to stop anyone attacking the statues or other monuments. He said: “Agencies have constantly been saying 'Use lights to illuminate statues and paintings of the three generals of the Mount Paekyu bloodline and thoroughly care for them to ensure that hostile elements cannot damage them'.” And a Japan-based expert confirmed disgruntled North Koreans were targeting the statues as symbols of the state’s problems. READ MORE: Does North Korea have nuclear weapons?

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Professor Toshimitsu Shigemura of Waseda University told the Telegraph: “There have been reports of incidents targeting these statues and monuments to the Kim family, particularly in the more remote areas of the country. “And, in comparison with the past, these incidents are becoming more frequent.” He said Kim was losing support from everyday North Koreans, especially among the younger generations. READ MORE: Will North Korea go to war with the USA?

GETTY The statues of Kim Jong-un, Kim Jong-il and Kim il-Sung are sacred places in North Korea

GETTY Targeting the statues with graffiti is a symbolic attack on North Korea

Professor Shigemura said: “Local authorities have no choice but to increase security around these monuments because it could cost them their jobs, or worse, if such protests begin to spread. “Younger generations of North Koreans have little respect for Kim Jong-un and we are beginning to see that come to the surface. “Despite all his promises, Kim Jong-un has had no significant successes and the people know it. People want food and better living standards, they do not care about nuclear weapons and missiles and they are asking why so much is being spent on them when they are hungry.” And Kim is coming under fire on the home and international front with pressure mounting on the despot after sabre rattling against the US and its allies.

People want food and better living standards, they do not care about nuclear weapons Professor Toshimitsu Shigemura

It comes as US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis said he could not imagine the US ever accepting a nuclear North Korea, warning that its rapidly advancing nuclear and missile programs would undermine, not strengthen, its security. Mr Mattis warned Pyongyang that its military was no match for the US-South Korean alliance, and that diplomacy was most effective "when backed by credible military force." Ramping up tensions, he said: "Make no mistake - any attack on the United States, or our allies, will be defeated. And any use of nuclear weapons by the North will be met with a massive military response that is both effective and overwhelming.” Ahead of a meeting with Mr Mattis in Seoul, South Korea’s President Moon Jae-in said “aggressive deployment” of US strategic assets on the Korean peninsula had effectively deterred North Korea.

South Korea shows off impressive military assets amid fears of North Korea attack Thu, September 28, 2017 South Koreans are preparing for war by displaying martial arts and massive weapons in military exercises and drills. Play slideshow EPA 1 of 15 A South Korean Special Army female soldier performs 'Teukgong martial arts'