North Korea urged all-out public efforts on Monday to complete major projects of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea ahead of its ninth party congress in 2026. The Rodong Sinmun described the period until the congress as a 'very important and responsible juncture' for implementing party decisions and transitioning to a new stage of reform. Leader Kim Jong-un is likely to highlight achievements from his regional development policy at the event.
On December 15, 2025, North Korea's Rodong Sinmun issued an editorial urging the completion of major projects under the Workers' Party of Korea ahead of the ninth party congress expected in January or February 2026. This will be the first such congress in five years, following the eighth in 2021 where a five-year economic development plan was adopted, and a new plan is anticipated at the upcoming event.
The newspaper stated, "Not even a trivial case of incompletion should be allowed" in implementing party tasks, especially as the country prepares for the next five-year plan and seeks to build momentum. It added, "Every effort should be made to implement party decisions so as to complete the construction of structures to the highest standard ... and to prevent any dissatisfaction or incompleteness."
Leader Kim Jong-un is likely to spotlight achievements from his signature "Regional Development 20x10 Policy" at the congress, presenting them as key party accomplishments. This policy focuses on regional growth initiatives. Preparations were discussed during a plenary meeting of the party's Central Committee from December 9 to 11, presided over by Kim.
The congress signals North Korea's intent to refine its economic strategy and advance reforms, though specific project details remain undisclosed.
