Kim lauds North Korea's economy and standing at party congress
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un opened the Workers’ Party congress, highlighting economic improvements and a stronger regional position, while expected to outline his domestic and foreign policies for the next five years and reinforce his authoritarian rule.
- Kim’s regime has leveraged advances in its nuclear arsenal and closer ties with Russia and China, deepening standoffs with the U.S. and South Korea amid growing military capabilities and geopolitical maneuvering.
- Analysts suggest Kim may use the congress to formalize his teenage daughter Kim Ju Ae’s role as a potential successor, signaling a continuation of the family’s dynastic leadership.
- The North Korean economy is reportedly improving post-pandemic, with estimated growth of around 10% over five years, aided by renewed trade
