Kathrine Frich
Howard views his act as more than entertainment.
Howard views his act as more than entertainment.
Meet Kim Jong-un’s Double
Howard X has built an international career from his uncanny resemblance to North Korea’s Supreme Leader.
Since 2013, he’s been impersonating Kim Jong-un, blending satire and political commentary in a way that has taken him across the globe and occasionally, into trouble.
From Supermarket Gags to Global Gigs
Howard first realised his likeness to Kim in 2011 and took a playful leap by posting pictures of himself striking dictator-like poses in everyday settings.
One viral Facebook post later, he found himself flying to Tel Aviv for his first major gig.
Satire as Protest: “Dictators Fear Humour”
Howard views his act as more than entertainment, it’s political satire.
“Dictators are afraid of mockery,” he told the BBC.
By mimicking Kim, he aims to draw attention to global authoritarianism, turning parody into protest.
The Summit That Got Him Deported
In 2019, Howard and a Donald Trump impersonator staged a mock summit in Vietnam ahead of the real diplomatic meeting.
The stunt drew the ire of local authorities, and Howard was swiftly deported. The move only amplified his notoriety.
“I’d Free North Korea”: What He’d Say to Kim
If he ever met the real Kim Jong-un? Howard says he wouldn’t hold back.
His message: “Go kill yourself and make me the leader. I’ll free your country.”
It’s a bold statement from someone who uses humour to push for change.
Trouble at Home and Abroad
Howard’s activism has consequences.
After participating in Hong Kong’s 2014 Umbrella Movement, his home was raided and he was arrested, though never charged.
He later left Hong Kong for Australia, citing safety concerns.
Threats, Assaults, and Staying Resilient
Over the years, Howard claims to have been assaulted by North Korean agents. Yet he remains undeterred.
His Australian citizenship has allowed him to continue his work while keeping a lower profile when needed.
When Kim Makes Headlines, So Does Howard
Howard’s gigs often surge in response to global events.
Whenever Kim Jong-un launches a missile or makes news, Howard says his phone starts ringing with offers.
Still, he’s proactive, creating his own projects rather than waiting for news cycles.
A One-Man Satirical Force
Howard uses his impersonation to deliver powerful visual statements.
“A protester with a sign can be ignored,” he explains, “but a dictator’s double turns heads.”
His presence at protests often garners more attention than traditional activism.
