North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been re-elected secretary-general of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea, extending his leadership at the 2026 Party Congress, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
The congress, held every five years in Pyongyang, also elected new Central Committee members and amended party rules, though no details were disclosed.
In his opening address, Kim said the party faced “urgent historic tasks” to strengthen economic construction and improve living standards, while maintaining military strength.
North Korea has prioritised nuclear weapons and defence capabilities, even as it promotes economic development under continued international sanctions.
Click to subscribe to the Weekly Brief by tut0ughNorth Korean leader Kim Jong Un applauds as he attends the Ninth Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) where he was re-elected as general secretary, in Pyongyang, North Korea, in this picture released February 23, 2026 by North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency. KCNA via REUTERS
North Korea’s Kim Jong Un re-elected Workers’ Party secretary-general
