PYONGYANG, North Korea, Feb. 23 — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been reelected as general secretary of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea during the party’s Ninth Congress, state media reported, highlighting his role in advancing the country’s nuclear deterrence capabilities.
According to the Korean Central News Agency, the congress decided to reelect Kim to the top party position, citing strong support from party members, citizens, and military personnel, and crediting him with guiding the country’s development and strengthening national security.
The decision was made Sunday during the fourth day of the multi-day congress, which typically sets major policy goals for the next five years, including economic, defense, and diplomatic strategies, according to Yonhap News Agency.
State media praised Kim’s leadership in building what it described as a powerful military capable of responding to threats and enhancing the country’s nuclear-based war deterrence. Officials said the nuclear program had significantly strengthened North Korea’s defense posture despite ongoing international sanctions.
Party Secretary Ri Il-hwan praised Kim’s leadership, saying he had guided the country toward greater strength and stability while overcoming external pressures.
The congress also adopted revised party rules and elected new members to the central committee, though specific details were not disclosed. Several senior officials, including Choe Ryong-hae, were not included in the newly announced leadership lineup, signaling a possible generational shift within the party.
South Korea’s Ministry of Unification said the congress reinforced Kim’s leadership while largely minimizing messaging related to foreign policy.
The Ninth Party Congress, which began last week, is North Korea’s highest decision-making body and the first such gathering since 2021. The party is expected to announce new policies covering economic development, defense, and diplomacy for the coming five years.
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