North Korea’s Kim opens rare party congress with pledge to fix economy
South China Morning Post
by Agence France-PresseFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has opened a rare Workers’ Party congress with a vow to address the nation’s economic struggles and improve living standards. In his opening speech, Kim emphasized the need for urgent action to boost economic construction and transform various aspects of state life. This comes amid ongoing challenges posed by heavy Western sanctions targeting North Korea's nuclear program, which have severely impacted the country's economy and left its citizens facing food shortages and other hardships.
The congress, held once every five years, is a significant event that shapes policies on everything from infrastructure development to national defense. Kim acknowledged the heavy tasks ahead, calling for relentless efforts without any delays. This shift in focus marks a potential turning point for North Korea, where military priorities have traditionally outweighed economic reforms. The leader’s pledge to prioritize economic growth reflects the growing pressure to stabilize the country’s economy and alleviate the suffering of its people.
This development matters globally as it could signal a possible shift in North Korea's approach to international relations and domestic policies. While Kim remains committed to maintaining his nation’s nuclear capabilities, his emphasis on economic reform suggests an attempt to navigate the challenges posed by sanctions and improve the livelihoods of his citizens. The outcome of this congress will be closely watched, as it could influence both internal stability and North Korea's interactions with the outside world.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/20/2026