North Korean leader Kim Jong Un observed a training exercise for long-range strategic cruise missiles and declared that it will spare no effort in the infinite and continuous enhancement of its national nuclear combat capabilities.
The regime’s official newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, reported on its second page on Monday that a long-range strategic cruise missile launch exercise was conducted over the western sea of North Korea on December 28.
According to the newspaper, the missiles flew along predetermined trajectories over the western sea for 10,199 seconds (2 hours, 49 minutes, and 59 seconds) and 10,203 seconds (2 hours, 50 minutes, and 3 seconds), successfully striking their targets. Kim reportedly expressed great satisfaction with the exercise results.
The front page covered the completion ceremony of a paper factory in Unsan County, South Pyongan Province. At the event, Kim emphasized the importance of maintaining clear objectives in developing paper-making techniques using domestic resources. He stressed the need to meet paper demands across various sectors, including science, technology, education, and cultural activities, and announced plans for nationwide paper factory construction.
The third page reported on housewarming celebrations in several rural areas of North Pyongan Province, including Jeongju City, Pakchon County, and Unjon County. The newspaper touted the construction of modest homes that improve residents’ living conditions while preserving local characteristics, claiming that the sounds of people’s joyful laughter echoed throughout these areas.
Page 4 showcased New Year’s greeting cards produced by North Korean cultural institutions, including the Literature and Art Publishing House, Central Art Creation Studio, and Pyongyang University of Art. The cards featured images of Pyongyang’s new streets, rural villages, local factories, athletes, children’s activities, and traditional customs.
The fifth page highlighted agricultural achievements, boasting that wheat production exceeded last year’s plan by over 120%. The newspaper credited this success to residents’ efforts in promoting scientific farming first principles.
The sixth page featured the Power Information Research Institute of the Ministry of Electric Power, named one of the year’s Top 10 Outstanding Information Technology Companies. The article praised the institute for leading power industry modernization through the development of integrated management systems for hydropower plants and energy efficiency.