North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently met with the players and coaches of the national team that won the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. He described their victory as a patriotic achievement that has brought optimism and joy to the entire nation.
The Workers’ Party newspaper Rodong Sinmun reported on the front page that Kim invited the U-20 women’s soccer team to the Party Central Committee headquarters on September 30. He remarked, “The achievements of our athletes in international competitions further unite our people and propel them strongly on the path of struggle.”
North Korea secured its third FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup title by defeating Japan 1-0 in the final held in Colombia on September 23. This win adds to previous wins in 2006 and 2016.
In a letter published on the second page, Kim congratulated Chinese President Xi Jinping on China’s National Day yesterday. He stated, “I extend warm congratulations to the Communist Party of China, the government of the People’s Republic of China, and the entire Chinese people on the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic.” He emphasized the importance of strengthening the traditional friendship between North Korea and China, expressing confidence that their cooperative relationship will continue to enhance.”
The third page urged agricultural workers to improve their production capabilities, emphasizing that “tractor drivers in rural mechanization should instill pride and honor within themselves as they faithfully support the party’s agricultural policies.”
An article titled A Night of Socialism Pulsating with Loyalty and Patriotic Passion on the fourth page highlighted achievements in rice harvesting. It noted that the rice harvest was completed ten days earlier than last year due to vigorous efforts from farms in areas like Byeokseong, Namryong, Janghae, Janghyeon, and Sangrim. The use of agricultural machinery, including mobile rice combines and corn threshers, has also increased threshing speed.
On page five, a veteran is photographed handing the Republic flag to a young soldier, with a message underscoring the need to honor the flag, which has been defended with blood amid the ravages of war. The article conveys that “The hearts of the new generation receiving this sacred flag resonate endlessly with the echoes of conviction,” inspiring patriotism among the youth.
Finally, page six condemned Israel’s military actions against Lebanon and criticized the United States. A spokesperson for North Korea’s Foreign Ministry stated, “We strongly denounce the inhumane crimes committed by Israel in Lebanon, following its actions in the Gaza Strip,” adding that the United States, which is perceived as orchestrating these actions, represents a malignant force against peace and stability in the region.