General Kim Il-sung was the founding leader of North Korea, serving as its premier from 1948 until his death in 1994. He played a significant role in the Korean War, which began in 1950, and established a strong cult of personality around himself. His leadership was characterized by a focus on military strength and the development of a centralized economy. Under Kim Il-sung's rule, North Korea adopted a political ideology known as Juche, which emphasizes self-reliance and independence. He was also known for his efforts to promote the idea of Korean nationalism and to maintain strict control over the country's political landscape. His legacy continues to influence North Korea today.