North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited the construction site of the Sinuiju Greenhouse Complex on January 2 to rally young builders and soldiers.
The Workers’ Party’s official newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, reported Kim’s visit on its front pages on January 3. In his congratulatory speech, Kim declared that the people see the endless prosperity of the nation in the powerful energy of the youth and in each creation infused with the passion and dedication of the young generation. It is confident in the continuation of its style of socialism through the robust growth of the comrades.
He continued that for the party, which shoulders the responsibility for the country’s future, this is truly a joyous and satisfying occasion. It’s only fitting to celebrate and encourage the young patriots as it ring in the new year. Kim expressed confidence that the valuable achievements born from selfless dedication would usher in a vibrant and glorious 2024, filled with even greater vitality and honor.
Page 3 reflected on the New Year’s celebration held at May Day Stadium on January 1. The paper described it as a chorus of Long live the nation, uniting the leader and people’s boundless patriotic aspirations, adding that this immeasurable strength will undoubtedly manifest the image of a powerful nation and the world’s greatest paradise on this land.
Page 4 featured Revolutionary Academy students engaging in propaganda activities at various economic sites, including the Pyongyang Thermal Power Plant. The paper also reported that entities such as the Sinpo City Goat Farm, Gangwon Province Urban Construction Brigade, and Kaechon Area Coal Mine Union Enterprise pledged to uphold Kim’s devotion to the people as they welcomed the new year.
Page 5 highlighted New Year celebrations across the country. The Chongjin Metal Construction Union Enterprise organized sports events, including table tennis and volleyball. The Chongjin Water Park, offering various recreational activities, was bustling with visitors. Residents of Jagang Province visited the Kanggye Ski Resort to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and sledding, according to the newspaper.
Page 6 covered the New Year addresses of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The paper reported that Putin praised Russia’s heroes, the special military operation participants, stating that they accepted the fight for the homeland, justice, and truth as their duty, and many Russians stand with them. It also noted that Xi emphasized that this year marks the start of the 15th Five-Year Plan, stressing the need to steadily promote high-quality development to continue writing a new chapter of miracles.