Leadership
Information related to North Korea’s leadership and leadership structures
Kim Jong Un cements his control with latest reshuffles at Party Congress
North Korean leader has filled key posts with close allies, while likely naming sister to lead a party control tower
February 24, 2026
North Korea debuts China-style name badges at Ninth Party Congress
Delegates spotted wearing red badges with photo, name and title for first time, likely reflecting Chinese influence
February 24, 2026
North Korean leader promotes sister Kim Yo Jong to department director
Kim set for bigger role after history of fiery statements against South Korea, as Party Congress shakes up leadership
February 24, 2026
Kim Jong Un vows to accelerate development, slams ‘extreme negligence’
North Korean leader criticizes mismanagement of new factories, concluding review of party’s work at Ninth Congress
February 24, 2026
South Korea denies skipping US-Japan air drills aimed at deterring North Korea
Media report claimed Seoul declined to participate due to territorial dispute and overlap with Lunar New Year
February 23, 2026
Why North Korea won’t stop talking about Kim Jong Un’s ‘five-point line’
Move to enshrine doctrine at Party Congress appears aimed at ensuring officials bend to the leader’s will
February 23, 2026
Top aide to Kim Jong Un cut from key post amid reshuffle of veteran officials
Removal of North Korean parliamentary chief Choe Ryong Hae from Central Committee suggests shift to younger cadres
February 23, 2026
Xi congratulates Kim Jong Un on reelection as North Korea’s party leader
Chinese president expresses hope for ‘new chapter in China-DPRK friendship’ following Ninth Party Congress
February 23, 2026
Kim Jong Un reelected as North Korean party leader, praised for nuke stance
Top official lauds Kim for ensuring country has both ‘candy and bullets’ on day four of Ninth Party Congress
February 23, 2026
Kim Jong Un gives mic to top diplomat, local official on day 3 of Party Congress
North Korea appears to spotlight Russia ties and rural development, while promoting ‘new fighting strategy’ for future
February 22, 2026
