North Korea is believed to have carried out renovation work on at least nine villa complexes—presumed to be used by leader Kim Jong-un and senior officials—across the country, according to satellite analysis.
NK News reported on the 2nd, citing imagery from satellite data company Planet Labs, that roof replacement and facility maintenance were observed at a minimum of nine private residence sites, including Yongseong, Gangdong, Jindallaegwan in Pyongyang, as well as Wonsan, Yeonpungho, Rakwon, Sincheon, Changseong, and Tongcheon.
Satellite images indicate that most construction activity began almost simultaneously between May 30 and June 2 across multiple regions. Some sites were also observed undergoing maintenance after mid-June.
Renovation work at key residences such as Yongseong, Gangdong, and Wonsan—reportedly used by Kim Jong-un—was expected. However, similar construction activity at remote sites such as the Tongcheon villa along the east coast has been described as unusual.
Even the relatively recently built Yeonpungho villa complex in South Pyongan Province underwent roof repairs. The Yeonpungho site is considered a luxury villa complex constructed during Kim Jong-un’s tenure.
The simultaneous nature of the construction across multiple locations suggests these facilities continue to serve as key residences or operational sites for the Kim family and close elites, NK News reported.
Separately, the Gosan Hotel in Pyongyang was also observed undergoing roof repairs between May 24 and May 30. The hotel is reportedly operated by North Korea’s state-owned airline Air Koryo.
Some analysts interpret the scale of renovations as suggesting upgrades not only to private residences but also to VIP and special-use facilities more broadly.
Observers also note that tracking maintenance activity at such high-level facilities may help infer potential movements of the North Korean leader.