North Korea’s Kim re-elected Workers’ Party general secretary at congress
France 24
by FRANCE 24February 22, 2026
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North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, has been re-elected as the general secretary of the ruling Workers’ Party at a rare and highly anticipated party congress. State media reported Monday that the decision was made on Sunday during the fourth day of the congress, with all delegates expressing full support for Kim. This marks the ninth time the Workers’ Party congress has been held under the Kim family’s rule, which emphasizes the central role of the party in shaping national policies and direction.
The congress, held every five years, is a significant event that offers insight into North Korea’s political dynamics. During his speech to open the gathering earlier this week, Kim highlighted the need to improve living standards and boost economic construction, acknowledging past challenges in economic development. While nuclear weapons and military strength remain a cornerstone of North Korea’s strategy, Kim has increasingly prioritized economic growth since assuming power in 2011.
Under Kim’s leadership, North Korea’s nuclear-based “war deterrence” has been significantly enhanced, according to state media reports. The congress also saw the revision of party rules aimed at strengthening discipline and consolidating party ranks. These changes are expected to
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/22/2026