North Korea has intensified its efforts to engage young people as part of its national “Youth Day” celebrations, emphasizing the government’s commitment to the youth.
North Korea’s state media outlet Rodong Sinmun reported that Choe Ryong Hae, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People’s Assembly (SPA), along with Workers’ Party secretaries, visited key sites such as construction projects, factories, coal mines, universities, and farms in North Pyongan Province on Wednesday as part of the Youth Day celebrations.
Youth Day in North Korea is observed annually on August 28 to honor Kim Il Sung’s founding of the Korean Communist Youth League on August 8, 1927.
The officials’ visits to young people involved in challenging work on Youth Day and the subsequent media coverage appear to bolster solidarity among the younger generation. North Korea has mobilized many young people for various tasks, including housing construction and recovery efforts in areas hit by recent heavy rains. They also deploy youth under the “volunteer work” banner to address labor shortages in regions such as coal mines and farms.
The celebratory events included artistic performances and sports activities, with officials joining the youth in these activities.
Regional events honoring Youth Day were also reported, with gatherings for exemplary young workers and volunteers in Hwanghae Province, Jagang Province, and North Hamgyong Province. Celebrations included performances at outdoor theaters and artistic venues in cities like Haeju, Hamhung, Chongjin, and Kanggye.
Students from Kim Il Sung University, Hamhung Medical University, Kanggye Medical University, Kim Chaek Iron and Steel Complex, Sariwon Student Uniform Factory, and Wonsan Shoes Factory participated in sports and recreational games.
The newspaper highlighted that the youth pledged their commitment to Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un and expressed their determination to enhance the pride and spirit of patriotic youth in the ongoing efforts to rejuvenate and develop the nation.