North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party has re-elected Kim Jong Un as General Secretary, state media reported Monday, as the country signalled plans to significantly advance its nuclear weapons programme.
The decision was announced during the fourth day of a rare national congress in Pyongyang, where thousands of party elites gathered to reaffirm Kim’s leadership and outline strategic military and economic priorities for the next five years.
Officials framed the re-election as a mandate to “radically” strengthen North Korea’s nuclear forces.
The congress placed strong emphasis on military modernisation, with state media praising Kim for transforming the Korean People’s Army into what it described as an elite force capable of countering external threats.
Days before the meeting opened, North Korea unveiled a large battery of nuclear-capable rocket launchers, signalling continued commitment to its weapons programme despite years of international sanctions.
Party officials argued that the country has entered an era in which it no longer needs to choose between defence and economic development, describing its nuclear deterrent as a “reliable guarantee” for national security and future prosperity.
The congress also underscored Pyongyang’s shifting diplomatic posture. Xi Jinping congratulated Kim on his re-election, praising a “new chapter” in bilateral relations.
Strengthening ties with China and Russia have boosted North Korea’s strategic confidence following years of pandemic-era isolation.
While Donald Trump has recently indicated openness to renewed dialogue, Kim has not publicly responded, instead projecting a united front with regional partners.
Observers are also watching for signals about future leadership within the ruling family.
Although Kim’s teenage daughter, Ju Ae, did not appear in the executive lineup, South Korean intelligence continues to monitor her as a potential successor undergoing early political and military grooming.
As the congress continues, the international community is closely monitoring developments for clues about the next phase of North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and its posture toward regional rivals.
