North Korean leader Kim Jong Un emphasized the importance of strengthening nuclear deterrence while observing a cruise missile test launch from a new destroyer.
The state-run newspaper Rodong Sinmun reported on its front page that operational evaluation tests for the Korean People’s Army Navy destroyer Choe Hyon are ongoing, with another strategic cruise missile test conducted on Tuesday. The paper noted that Kim watched the test launch via video conference alongside his daughter, Ju Ae.
Kim stated that the tests aim to evaluate the reliability of the national strategic weapon integrated command system, assess weapon system components, and verify the combat effectiveness of the integrated combat system. He also suggested equipping high-speed maneuverable vessels under 3,000 tons with onboard automatic cannons and deploying supersonic weapon systems on larger destroyers of 5,000 and 8,000 tons.
Page 2 of the newspaper covered preparations for the upcoming 15th Supreme People’s Assembly election. It reported that election committees are being organized in various districts and candidate qualifications are under review, amid what it called revolutionary fervor to strengthen the government and further develop the state system.
The third page reported on a youth rally in Pyongyang’s Youth Park outdoor theater, aimed at implementing decisions from the 9th Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea. Speakers emphasized the importance of youth participation in the new five-year plan.
The fourth page highlighted economic initiatives to support the new five-year plan. Citing Kim’s directives, it stressed that government agencies must work to put the entire national economy on a growth trajectory and develop strategies for sustainable economic development.
Page 5 featured an ideological piece emphasizing the critical nature of implementing party decisions. It described these decisions as solemn pledges by party members, urging unwavering commitment to their execution regardless of circumstances.
The final page underscored the importance of resource conservation and scientific advancement. It argued that only those with high scientific and technological knowledge can lead in resource conservation efforts, calling for a culture of saving every watt of electricity, gram of coal, and drop of water.