The Workers’ Party of Korea’s Ninth Congress wrapped up with a unanimous re-election of Kim Jong Un as General Secretary, locking in his command for another half-decade. Held in Pyongyang from February 19-22, the landmark session was quickly celebrated by Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
In his message, Xi applauded the outcome as a testament to Kim’s overwhelming backing from party ranks, state apparatus, and populace. Labeling China and North Korea as enduring socialist partners, Xi vowed unwavering dedication to expanding their bond. Nodding to prior dialogues, he pushed for executing major accords to launch a fresh era of collaboration.
Over four days, 5,000 delegates hailed Kim’s feats in nuclear proliferation, economic fortification, and security upliftment. The praise fest positioned him as indispensable to the nation’s trajectory.
Key outcomes encompassed new Central Committee selections and party rule tweaks, widely seen as cementing the Kim lineage’s authority. Economic revival took center stage amid crises, with no disruptive policy pivots revealed.
Rumors swirl around daughter Ju Ae’s potential inheritance, but her no-show at the event leaves questions hanging. Globally, this reaffirms North Korea’s resolute stance, backed by China’s nod, amid persistent sanctions and geopolitical strains.