North Korea is showcasing its achievements in both construction and defense as it gears up for the 9th Congress of the Workers’ Party. The regime is emphasizing its progress in building a civilized state while also touting advancements in strategic military capabilities.
On Thursday, the Workers’ Party’s official newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, reported on its front page that the groundbreaking ceremony for the fifth phase of construction in the Hwasong district was held on Wednesday. The event was described as reinforcing the people’s trust in the party and system, as well as boosting confidence in their own strength and accomplishments. Kim Jong Un, General Secretary of the Workers’ Party, attended the ceremony and declared that it must transform the capital, Pyongyang, into an even more magnificent city.
Page 2 of the newspaper highlighted the presentation of 600mm large-caliber multiple rocket launchers to the 9th Party Congress. These weapons were described as embodying the unwavering commitment and fervent patriotism of the military-industrial workforce. The report stated that workers from key defense enterprises produced 50 launchers, capable of firing a total of 250 rounds, over a two-month period as a gift for the congress.
The third page featured the full text of Kim’s speech at the rocket launcher presentation ceremony. He emphasized that the most powerful offensive capability is the most reliable deterrent, and promised to continue showcasing defense technology achievements that would greatly unsettle the geopolitical adversaries.
Kim’s full address at the Hwasong district construction groundbreaking was published on page 4. He underscored the continuous progress, stating that yesterday marked a completion, and today heralds a new beginning, signifying that the capital’s development is advancing to a higher level.
The fifth page provided a historical overview of the Workers’ Party congresses, from its founding in 1945 to the 8th Congress in 2021. The newspaper framed these events as pivotal moments that spurred revolutionary development and remarkable progress. This narrative aimed to reinforce the party’s legitimacy and continuity ahead of the upcoming 9th Congress.
The final page covered the General Association of Korean Residents in Japan’s school support initiatives and the activities of Korean expatriate art troupes. The paper reported that these efforts to bolster ethnic education and cultural performances are intensifying patriotic sentiment within the overseas Korean community.
