On February 22, 2026, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was re-elected as the general secretary of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea during the Ninth Congress, attended by approximately 5,000 delegates. This event not only showcased Kim's consolidation of power but also highlighted his commitment to enhancing North Korea's military capabilities, particularly its nuclear arsenal. Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Kim, stating that his re-election reflects the 'high trust and wholehearted support' of the North Korean party, government, and people, and expressed a desire to 'open a new chapter' in China-DPRK relations (South China Morning Post, February 23, 2026). Analysts noted that this congress marks a shift from crisis management to a phase of confident, stable long-term rule, as stated by Lim Eul-chul, a North Korea expert at Kyungnam University.
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Kim Jong Un Re-Elected As North Korea'S Ruling Party Leader
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On February 22, 2026, Kim Jong Un was re-elected as North Korea's leader, emphasizing military strength and economic growth, while signaling a generational shift in leadership and future policies.
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13 outlets · 13 articles
DTdailytimes.com.pk
BRbrecorder.com
TFPthefrontierpost.com
PNNpakistannews.net
THthehindu.com
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