North Korea commemorated the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Workers’ Party, emphasizing the party’s leadership and highlighting General Secretary Kim Jong Un’s achievements in building a strong nation, while urging citizens to show unwavering dedication and loyalty.
The party’s official newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, published a front‐page editorial on Tuesday titled, Our Party of Destiny. The piece argued that while other parties seek power solely for governance, the Workers’ Party views power as a solemn responsibility for the fate of the people and as a commitment to unconditional service.
The newspaper further defended the permanence of its unique leadership system by stating that as long as the people exist, the party’s rule transcends historical notions of longevity and becomes eternal.
Reflecting on the past 80 years, the paper acknowledged tumultuous periods—including the collapse of socialist regimes worldwide, the loss of their great father, and the Arduous March, a time of severe economic hardship during which both the state and its people faced existential struggles.
Despite these challenges, Rodong Sinmun depicted the Workers’ Party as a mother’s embrace that exists for the people. It underscored the legitimacy of General Secretary Kim’s efforts to strengthen national defense and uphold an independent policy. The editorial warned that a voice of justice without strength can only yield blood and tears, and a powerless fate inevitably leads to self-imposed servitude. This is the harsh and unforgiving reality of the world.
Acknowledging the unlikelihood of a small, struggling nation like North Korea confronting and overpowering major powers, the paper asserted that the party boldly stepped forward with the determination to move mountains for this Korea and its people. It claimed that over the past 80 years, the Workers’ Party has existed for the people and achieved remarkable accomplishments.
The editorial called on everyone to become individuals with hearts fervently devoted to party loyalty and to be passionate patriots ready to fight without hesitation—even at the cost of their lives.
As North Korea concludes its five-year economic development plan and prepares for the 9th Party Congress early next year, it continues to promote unity among its citizens. The editorial was authored by Dong Taek-wan, a veteran Rodong Sinmun columnist who was honored for his contributions and awarded an apartment in a multi-story residential complex in Pyongyang by General Secretary Kim in 2022.