North Korea emphasized the importance of continuing the spirit of patriotism and love for the nation in the era of Kim Jong Un, the General Secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea, as it commemorated the 70th anniversary of the formation of the General Association of Korean Residents in Japan (Chongryon).
The official newspaper of the Workers’ Party of Korea, Rodong Sinmun, reported on Monday that a central commemorative meeting for the 70th anniversary of Chongryon was held at the People’s Palace of Culture on Sunday.
Kang Yun Sok, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People’s Assembly; Jon Sung Guk, Vice Premier of the Cabinet; Ri Son Gwon, Party’s central committee director; and workers from labor organizations, ministries, central agencies, related sectors, and Chongryon affiliates attended the meeting.
In his report, Vice Chairman Kang emphasized that Chongryon must continue to write a great new history of the Korean residents’ movement in Japan at the forefront of the self-reliant overseas Korean movement, carrying forward the pioneering generation’s noble ideals and patriotic spirit. He noted that it must further engrave the legacy of patriotism and love for the nation in this new era that shines with the revered name of Kim Jong Un.
He continued, stressing the importance of establishing the Juche ideology and leadership system thoroughly. Kang urged that ideological education be strengthened to arm Chongryon officials and compatriots with patriotism and Korean nationalism, preparing them to be powerful advocates of patriotism and true owners of Chongryon’s work.
The report also highlighted Kim Jong Un’s efforts to achieve Chongryon’s prosperity and emphasized his loyalty to him.
The speaker noted that Kim Jong Un sends New Year’s greetings, letters, and congratulatory messages to Chongryon annually, has adopted laws to protect overseas Koreans’ rights, and provides educational aid and scholarships. He asserted that the unshakable belief that the Korean people’s eternal dignity, peace, and happiness lie in honoring Kim Jong Un must become the core principle of the compatriots’ lives, leading to the prosperity of Chongryon and the community.
In response, the leader of the Korean Residents’ Delegation from Japan visiting North Korea for Chongryon’s 70th anniversary, pledged in his speech that it will proudly write a new chapter in the history of the Korean residents’ movement in Japan during the Kim’s era, ensuring that Chongryon’s 70-year history evolves into a century and millennium of patriotic legacy.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un also sent a commemorative letter on the eve of the anniversary. Since declaring South and North Korea hostile states last year, North Korea appears to be increasingly attentive to Chongryon. This seems to be an effort to strengthen ties with the organization, which the disappearance of national unification commemorations has unsettled.