North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has been re-elected general secretary of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) announced that the decision was made on 22/2, the 4th day of the party's 9th National Congress, reflecting the "unwavering will and unified aspiration of all delegates".

The congress, held once every five years, aims to outline the country's major guidelines and policies across all sectors. During the session on 22/2, the Workers' Party of Korea also voted to adopt revised party rules. These rules are aimed at "strengthening the quality of party ranks" and ensuring "fairness in implementing party discipline". Details of these amendments were not mentioned.

KCNA emphasized that under Kim's leadership, "the country's war deterrence capability, with nuclear forces as its backbone, has been greatly improved". According to the news agency, Kim has also enhanced the country's prestige, created a favorable international environment for the revolutionary struggle, and transformed its army into an "elite, powerful" military force.

Kim Jong-un on the 4th day of the ruling party's congress on 22/2. *Photo: KCNA*

Speaking at the congress's opening on 19/2, the North Korean leader stated that the ruling party faces a "historic, urgent task" to strengthen economic construction and improve people's living standards. He also called for the transformation of all areas of social and state life "as soon as possible". Since coming to power in 2011, Kim has consistently emphasized the need to improve the country's economy.

At the most recent congress in 2021, Kim admitted that North Korea had made some errors in "almost every area" of economic development.

Pham Giang (According to KCNA, Reuters, AFP)