North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been reaffirmed as the general secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea, according to an official report from the nation’s state media.
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) made the announcement on Monday, stating that the decision was made official on February 22 during the party’s Ninth Congress.
KCNA emphasized that this decision encapsulates the “unanimous desire” of the party’s members, the military, and the broader public. The agency lauded Kim as the “center of unity and leadership,” recognizing his role in bolstering North Korea’s nuclear capabilities and advancing its economic and military progress.
The comprehensive statement outlined the nation’s achievements over the last five years, particularly in enhancing defense strategies and economic development.
Furthermore, it reiterated Kim’s pivotal position as the leader steering the country’s “socialist construction.”
Kim, who has led North Korea since 2011, took on the mantle of general secretary of the Workers’ Party in 2021, inheriting the title from his late father, Kim Jong Il.
An analysis by the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) suggests North Korea could use the conclusion of the Ninth Party Congress to unveil new strategic weapons and highlight progress under its 2021–2025 military modernization plan.
The report notes Pyongyang may showcase advances in intercontinental ballistic missiles, submarine-launched ballistic missiles and hypersonic glide vehicles as it seeks to improve the survivability and accuracy of its nuclear capabilities.
AEI assessed that Kim is also likely to outline modernization goals for the 2026–2030 period, potentially emphasizing second-strike capabilities, faster launch readiness and more diverse delivery systems.
Beyond military issues, the analysis says Kim may frame the current five-year economic plan as a success, pointing to increased trade with Russia and China and efforts under his “20×10 Regional Development Policy” to reduce rural-urban disparities.
