North Korea opened the 9th Plenum of its Workers’ Party Central Committee on the 19th. This gathering serves as the regime’s top decision-making body, setting the political course for the coming five years.
Kim Jong-un’s Key Address
Kim Jong-un, Chairman of the State Affairs Commission, drew parallels to the 8th Party Congress in August 2021. He stated, “The great external sovereignty of the state faced direct violation back then. By firmly upholding the inviolability of national sovereignty, profound shifts occurred in the global political landscape and relations impacting our nation. These changes intensified pressures on socialist construction, compelling urgent and rational responses amid evolving circumstances.”
Kim avoided direct references to bolstering nuclear and missile forces or military ties with Russia. He also sidestepped discussions on alternative paths to the United States or South Korea.
Reflecting on the past half-decade, Kim remarked, “Five years ago, confronting the fiercest enemy head-on with our mightiest nation, fueled by resolve to seize a new era of all-round development, we convened the 8th Congress. Today, armed with national strength and conviction, we boldly advance to this 9th Plenum against the adversary.”
Call for Economic and Social Renewal
Kim urged prioritizing economic growth and public welfare. He emphasized, “Our Party must intensify economic construction and enhance livelihoods right now. We need to overhaul every facet of state and societal life. No challenge, however daunting, will stand in our way as we forge ahead with resolute historical resolve.”
Plenum Agenda Highlights
Key items on the agenda include operations of the Party Central Committee Presidium, reforms to the Party youth organization, and selections for Central Committee cadres.
Delegates reviewed preparations for prior plenums, scrutinizing departmental performance over the last five years to address non-socialist shortfalls. On youth organizations, discussions focused on adapting Party leadership to new-era demands, aiming to amplify guiding functions.
