" A man who dreads trials and difficulties cannot become a revolutionary. If he is to become a revolutionary with an indomitable fighting spirit, he must be tempered in the arduous struggle from his youth. As the saying goes, early training means more than late earning. "
- Kim Jong Il

This quote emphasizes that individuals who wish to become revolutionaries must possess an unwavering spirit that allows them to face trials and difficulties head-on. The speaker argues that avoiding challenges will hinder one's ability to contribute meaningfully to revolutionary causes, asserting instead that enduring struggles from a young age is crucial for developing the resilience needed to push forward with determination.

At its core, this statement underscores the importance of early exposure to hardship as a formative experience in shaping an individual’s character and readiness to engage in transformative activities. By embracing challenges and navigating them successfully, one cultivates mental toughness and dedication that are essential traits for anyone striving to effect significant change. The quote also highlights the idea that skills and attitudes acquired during youth can be more valuable than those learned later in life when attempting to achieve revolutionary goals.

Kim Jong Il was a prominent figure in North Korea who served as its supreme leader from 1994 until his death in 2011. Known for his political ideology rooted deeply within Juche, an indigenous North Korean philosophy promoting self-reliance and national independence, Kim Jong Il often emphasized the importance of enduring hardship and displaying resilience to foster a committed cadre willing to work towards societal transformation. His words reflect his belief in nurturing individuals who are prepared to confront challenges with steadfast resolve, thereby contributing effectively to revolutionary endeavors.