Kim Jong Un Re‑Elected General Secretary at Early North Korean Party Congress, Announces Economic Push
Updated (2 articles)
Early Congress Begins with Thousands of Delegates The Workers’ Party congress opened on 19 Feb 2026 in Pyongyang with roughly 5,000 delegates, marking an unusually early gathering that deviates from the regular five‑year schedule [1][2]. State media described the event as a “rubber‑stamp” session, yet observers note the timing may signal strategic recalibrations [2]. The congress is slated to run for several days, with the fourth day reported on 23 Feb 2026 [1].
Kim Jong Un Wins Unanimous Re‑Election On 23 Feb 2026 the Korean Central News Agency announced that Kim Jong Un was re‑elected general secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea, a result presented as the unanimous will of all delegates [1][2]. The announcement emphasized continuity and portrayed the vote as unsurprising within the regime’s hierarchy [2]. Kim’s re‑appointment consolidates his position as the top leader since the party’s founding in the 1940s [1].
Presidium Overhaul Replaces Majority of Members The party’s presidium saw a major turnover, with more than half of its 39 members replaced since the 2021 congress [1]. The reshuffle suggests potential shifts in policy direction while retaining Kim’s dominance [1]. Analysts view the new composition as a test of loyalty among senior officials [1].
Opening Speech Ties Nuclear Deterrence to Economic Goals In his opening address Kim pledged to boost the economy and raise living standards, calling these “heavy and urgent historic tasks” [1]. He also declared that North Korea’s nuclear deterrence had been “radically improved,” positioning the arsenal as central to national security [1]. Chinese President Xi Jinping called to congratulate Kim and promised cooperation, and South Korean intelligence noted reports that Kim’s 13‑year‑old daughter Ju Ae may be positioned as heir [1][2].
Sources
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1.
BBC: Kim Jong Un Re‑appointed General Secretary at North Korea’s Party Congress: details re‑appointment at a rubber‑stamp congress, early start on 19 Feb, nuclear deterrence claim, presidium reshuffle, economic promises, Xi’s congratulations, and speculation about daughter Ju Ae as heir .
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Le Monde: Kim Jong-un Re‑elected Secretary General at Exceptional North Korean Party Congress: highlights the extraordinary early congress, unanimous delegate support, continuity of Kim’s rule, and contextualizes ongoing nuclear program and sanctions since the 2021 congress .
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Timeline
2021 – The Workers’ Party of Korea holds its regular five‑year congress, after which Pyongyang expands its nuclear arsenal, conducts multiple ICBM tests, defies UN Security Council bans and faces intensified sanctions, while the economy remains stagnant and food shortages persist[2].
Feb 19, 2026 – The Ninth Workers’ Party Congress opens in Pyongyang with about 5,000 delegates, marking the start of a four‑day “rubber‑stamp” meeting that offers rare insight into the regime’s power structure[1].
Feb 20, 2026 – Party officials announce that the congress is “exceptional,” convened unusually early rather than on the normal five‑year schedule, signaling possible strategic shifts[2].
Feb 23, 2026 – Kim Jong Un is re‑elected secretary general of the Workers’ Party by “the unshakable will and unanimous desire of all delegates,” reinforcing his uncontested authority[2].
Feb 23, 2026 – State media re‑appoints Kim Jong Un as general secretary, praising that “nuclear deterrence ‘radically improved’” under his leadership, a claim that underpins the regime’s security narrative[1].
Feb 23, 2026 – In his opening speech, Kim declares improving the economy and raising living standards a “heavy and urgent historic task,” linking economic goals to the party’s broader priorities[1].
Feb 23, 2026 – The Presidium undergoes a major reshuffle, with over half of its 39 members replaced since the 2021 congress, indicating potential policy redirection while Kim remains the top leader[1].
Feb 23, 2026 – Chinese President Xi Jinping calls Kim to congratulate his re‑appointment and pledges continued cooperation, highlighting the diplomatic significance of the congress[1].
Feb 23, 2026 – South Korean intelligence reports that Kim has named his 13‑year‑old daughter Ju Ae as heir, raising expectations that she may appear publicly at the congress[1].
Feb 2026 onward – The congress is expected to unveil new economic and defense policies, as historically such meetings serve as platforms for regime reinforcement and policy shifts[2].