Congress Opens with 5,000 Delegates and Five‑Year Agenda The ninth Workers’ Party Congress convened in Pyongyang on Feb 19, 2026, the first such gathering since 2021. Roughly 5,000 delegates attended, including more than 200 officials from the central party headquarters and over 4,700 representatives from regional and industrial bodies[1][2]. The congress will outline state objectives for the next half‑decade covering defense, economy, and diplomacy[2]. It also serves to decide senior personnel appointments, a standard function of the party congress[1].

Kim Jong‑un Praises Economic Gains While Avoiding US‑South Korea References In his opening speech, Kim Jong‑un declared that the national economy had overcome difficulties and laid a foundation for progress[1]. He emphasized that North Korea had solidified its external status and created conditions for advancing socialism, without mentioning the United States or South Korea[2]. The leader framed economic development as a cornerstone of the upcoming five‑year plan[2]. His remarks signaled a continued focus on socialist construction rather than diplomatic overtures[1].

Presidium Elected Includes Kim, Premier Pak, and Sister Kim Yo‑jong The congress elected a 39‑member presidium, featuring Kim Jong‑un, Premier Pak Thae‑song, party secretary Jo Yong‑won, and Kim’s sister Kim Yo‑jong among others[1]. Foreign Minister Choe Son‑hui and additional senior officials also secured seats on the presidium[1]. The composition underscores the consolidation of power within Kim’s inner circle while integrating key economic and diplomatic figures[1]. This leadership body will steer the implementation of the five‑year agenda[2].

No Visual or Official Reference to Daughter Ju‑ae Amid Succession Talk Despite South Korean intelligence suggesting that Kim’s daughter Ju‑ae may be groomed as a successor, the congress omitted any visual or official mention of her[1]. The absence of her name or image highlights the regime’s cautious approach to succession signaling[1]. Analysts note that the omission could reflect internal debates or a strategic decision to keep succession plans opaque[1]. No other source in the coverage addressed Ju‑ae, reinforcing the singularity of this observation[1].

Preparation Body Reviews 2021 Outcomes, Signals Potential Policy Shifts Kim announced that the party central committee formed a preparation body to review the outcomes of the 2021 congress, aiming to inform new targets and strengthen implementation capacity[2]. International observers will watch the congress for any signals regarding North Korea’s nuclear weapons program or diplomatic posture toward Seoul and Washington[2]. The establishment of this review group suggests a systematic assessment of past policies before setting the next five‑year direction[2]. Analysts interpret the move as a possible prelude to adjustments in defense or diplomatic strategy[2].