North Korea conducted elections for grassroots party organization general meetings (representative meetings), city and county party representative meetings, and provincial party representatives.
The Rodong Sinmun, the Workers’ Party’s official newspaper, reported on January 24 that general meetings of grassroots party organizations were held with exceptional political awareness and enthusiasm from party members, followed by city and county party representative meetings. This was detailed in an article titled, On Preparations for the 9th Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea.
The newspaper analyzed and summarized the shortcomings and lessons that emerged during the review period. It stated that elections for city and county party committee leadership and representatives to the provincial party meetings took place.
On Page 2, an article titled, The Great Prosperity Period of Construction That Has Transformed the Nation, highlighted achievements in rural housing construction over the past five years. It also mentioned changes in the Wonsan-Kalma coastal tourist area and the completion of the Hwaseong district and Onpo hot spring resort. The article claimed these developments represent ongoing efforts to expand cultural amenities for the benefit of the people.
Page 3 reported on the completion ceremony of the Agricultural Machinery Research Institute. The facility includes areas for test production, technology exchange, and product exhibitions, along with experimental tools and equipment. It also provides living accommodations for researchers. The article noted that the Hancheon Fisheries Business Office constructed a new fish sauce processing plant. Additionally, the Ri Gye-soon Teachers College held its completion ceremony.
Page 4 referenced the work of the primary party committee at the Munpyeong Smelter, encouraging a party work style that emphasizes science and technology. A research group from Kim Il Sung University’s History Department reported intensifying their investigation and excavation of historical sites in the Paektu Mountain area. In collaboration with Russia’s Novosibirsk State University, they conducted radiocarbon dating, estimating that the individuals buried there lived from the mid-18th to mid-19th centuries.
Page 5 emphasized that all officials must prioritize quality assurance in production and construction to achieve continuous progress. It mentioned a product evaluation meeting at the Hamhung Wood Products Factory, stating that consistently improving equipment performance leads to quality improvements.
Page 6 reported that the Rice Research Institute at the Agricultural Science Academy is focusing on enhancing its research capabilities to breed rice varieties for reclaimed tidal flats. An article titled, Foolish Steps Toward Self-Destruction criticized Japan’s intention to strengthen alliances with the U.S., claiming it effectively declares neighboring countries as military operation zones.
The newspaper noted that as the Japanese government pushes for early amendments to its three security documents, Defense Minister Koizumi discussed adopting U.S. artificial intelligence, drone, and aerospace technologies. It argued that this clearly reveals the adventurous tendencies of Japanese reactionaries who are eagerly pursuing overseas expansion and undermining peace.