North Korea’s ambitious new town construction project in Pyongyang, which began in 2021, appears to be nearing completion. Sources indicate that the regime plans to hold a grand celebration before the 9th Congress of the Workers’ Party, scheduled for later this month.
On Wednesday, U.S.-based NK News reported findings from their analysis of Planet Labs satellite imagery. The images revealed that temporary accommodations for construction workers at the 50,000-unit housing project in Pyongyang have been dismantled since February 3. Additionally, a structure presumed to be for the opening ceremony is being erected near the Pyongyang Central Zoo, adjacent to the 4th phase construction site of the Hwasong District project.
The Pyongyang housing initiative aims to construct 50,000 homes over five years, building 10,000 units annually from 2021 to 2025.
North Korea kicked off the project by completing the Songshin-Songhwa District on Pyongyang’s outskirts in 2022. This was followed by the completion of Hwasong Street in 2023, marking the first phase of the Hwasong District project. The second and third phases were completed in 2024 and last year, respectively. The final phase, which began construction last February, is expected to be finished soon.
The Rodong Sinmun, North Korea’s state-run newspaper, reported on January 11 that the fourth phase of construction is progressing according to the 2025 capital construction plan. This plan was decided at the 11th plenary meeting of the 8th Central Committee. The report stated that finishing work is currently underway, with 99% of the total construction volume completed.
The 50,000-unit housing project in Pyongyang stands as the most extensive and prolonged construction endeavor since Kim Jong Un assumed power.
This initiative involves redeveloping Pyongyang’s outskirts into a new urban area. Analysts believe it aims to garner public support by revitalizing underdeveloped regions and expanding the city’s boundaries. Building on this project, North Korea launched its Local Development 20X10 Policy in 2024. This ambitious plan involves constructing new factories and hospitals in 20 different regions annually for the next decade.
North Korea is expected to showcase the 50,000-unit housing project as one of Kim’s crowning achievements during an upcoming high-profile event. Furthermore, the 9th Party Congress is anticipated to unveil new construction initiatives, potentially setting the stage for the regime’s next major development push.