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Kim Jong Un retains top party role
North Korea's ruling Workers' Party unanimously reappointed Kim Jong Un as general secretary during its congress in Pyongyang on Sunday, state media confirmed. The decision aligns with the Kim dynasty's unbroken grip on power since the late 1940s.
Nuclear program remains central
State-run KCNA reported that Kim's leadership has "radically strengthened" the country's "war deterrence," with nuclear capabilities at its core. Despite international sanctions, Pyongyang has continued expanding its arsenal, conducting frequent tests of banned intercontinental ballistic missiles. The regime's secrecy, however, complicates independent assessments of its military progress.
Congress highlights shifting priorities
The Ninth Workers' Party Congress, which opened on February 19 and entered its fourth day on Sunday, serves as a rare window into North Korea's political hierarchy. Around 5,000 delegates are attending, with discussions expected to outline the next phase of the country's weapons development.
Before the event, North Korea displayed a new range of nuclear-capable rocket launchers, signaling its ongoing military ambitions. The congress, held every five years, also provides insight into domestic and foreign policy shifts.
Leadership reshuffle and economic pledges
While Kim remains the undisputed leader, the party's 39-member presidium has seen significant turnover since the 2021 congress, with over half of its members replaced, according to state media. In his opening address, Kim described economic growth and improving living standards as "urgent historic tasks."
Succession speculation and regional dynamics
Observers are closely watching for appearances by Kim's daughter, Ju Ae, believed to be 13 years old. South Korea's intelligence agency recently suggested she has been designated as her father's heir, citing her growing visibility at high-profile events, including missile inspections and a military parade in Beijing alongside Kim, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
On Monday, Xi congratulated Kim on his reappointment, pledging to "write a new chapter" in China-North Korea relations, Chinese state media reported. While Beijing remains Pyongyang's primary ally-serving as its largest trade partner and aid provider-it has also expressed concerns over North Korea's nuclear ambitions and deepening ties with Russia.
