North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been re-elected as general secretary of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea.
The decision was announced Monday by Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), which reported that the measure was formally adopted on February 22 during the party’s Ninth Congress.
According to the state media report, Kim’s leadership in advancing nuclear and missile development, as well as economic policy, was cited as a basis for the decision. KCNA stated that the country’s war deterrence capability, with “nuclear forces as its pivot,” has been significantly strengthened under his leadership.
The congress also reportedly revised party rules, although specific changes were not disclosed. In addition, members of the party’s central committee were selected, but certain notable figures — including Choe Ryong Hae, chair of the standing committee of the Supreme People’s Assembly — were not mentioned in the report.
Some South Korean analysts have speculated that the omissions may signal a generational shift within the party’s leadership structure.
Kim Jong Un, who has led North Korea since 2011, formally assumed the title of general secretary in 2021, succeeding his late father, Kim Jong Il.
The KCNA report indicated that Pyongyang may use the conclusion of the congress to showcase advancements in intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and hypersonic glide vehicles, as part of efforts to enhance the survivability and precision of its nuclear capabilities.
An analysis by the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) suggested that North Korea could unveil new strategic weapons and highlight progress under its 2021–2025 military modernization plan. AEI further assessed thatKim Jong Un may outline new modernization objectives for 2026–2030, potentially focusing on second-strike capabilities, faster launch readiness, and diversified delivery systems.
