North Korea promotes Kim Jong Un’s sister as he vows to boost economy
Al Jazeera
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
North Korea has elevated Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un, to the position of full department director within the ruling Workers' Party Central Committee. This promotion comes during a significant party congress where Kim Jong Un outlined his five-year economic plan aimed at revitalizing North Korea's economy and enhancing self-reliance through technological and cultural advancements.
Kim Yo Jong, who previously served as a deputy department director, is now poised to lead the propaganda department, which oversees inter-Korean relations and external strategies. Known for her influential role in the party, she has been a close confidant of her brother since he assumed power following their father's death in 2011. Educated in Switzerland alongside Kim Jong Un, she has rapidly advanced through the ranks and is frequently used by Pyongyang to communicate official positions.
The congress also re-elected Kim Jong Un as the party's secretary-general, extending his leadership for another five years. During this gathering, attention was drawn to Kim Jong Un's teenage daughter, Kim Ju Ae, who appears to be emerging as a potential successor. Her increased public appearances at key events, including missile tests and military ceremonies, suggest her growing political role.
This promotion of Kim Yo Jong and Kim Jong Un's economic pledges reflect the regime's efforts to consolidate power and project stability amid international tensions. The move underscores the internal dynamics of North Korea's leadership structure and its strategic approach to both domestic development and external relations. As global observers track these developments, they highlight the ongoing challenges and opportunities for engagement with North Korea in the region.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/24/2026