By Micah Jonah, February 21, 2026
North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un opened the rare Ninth Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) with a pledge to raise living standards, boost economic activities, signaling a continued focus on domestic development alongside the nation’s long-standing military priorities.
“Today, our party is faced with heavy and urgent historic tasks of boosting economic construction and the people’s standard of living, and transforming all realms of state and social life as early as possible,” Kim said in his opening speech, as reported by Korean Central News Agency.
Observers note that Kim highlighted progress over the past five years, stating North Korea has overcome its “worst difficulties” and is entering a stage of “optimism and confidence in the future.” While economic and social reforms are emphasized, military readiness remains central, with the congress opening amid the unveiling of 50 new short-range nuclear-capable missile launch vehicles.
The congress, which runs for several days, is closely monitored for indications regarding North Korea’s nuclear programme and foreign relations, particularly with Seoul and Washington. So far, Kim made no direct reference to the United States or South Korea, a move seen as cautiously positive by analysts in Seoul.
Satellite imagery and previous congresses suggest that Pyongyang may use large-scale military parades to demonstrate weapons capabilities, making this gathering a key indicator of both domestic priorities and military posture.
The congress includes around 5,000 delegates, including 200 senior WPK officials and over 4,700 representatives from regional and industrial sectors, underscoring the event’s significance in shaping North Korea’s political and economic trajectory.
Economic recovery has been aided by increased trade with China following the COVID-19 pandemic and arms exports to Russia during its war with Ukraine, although sanctions and internal resource constraints continue to limit the country’s broader development.
Kim’s leadership remains focused on consolidating domestic control, modernizing the economy, and maintaining a robust defense posture, setting the stage for both continuity and cautious adaptation in North Korea’s policy direction.
