North Korean Premier Pak Thae-song highlighted leader Kim Jong-un's regional development initiative as the state's top priority, urging officials to devote themselves to the plans. The remarks were made during a groundbreaking ceremony in Pyongwon County, South Pyongan Province. The policy, known as the Regional Development 20x10 Policy, aims to build modern industrial plants in 20 cities and counties each year to narrow the urban-rural gap over the next decade.
North Korean Premier Pak Thae-song, in a speech at a groundbreaking ceremony for a construction project in Pyongwon County, South Pyongan Province, on January 31, described leader Kim Jong-un's regional development initiative as the highest priority for the party and the state. According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Pak urged officials to commit to implementing the policy, calling for "patriotic strength and enthusiasm" to make this year "a new year of victory for the regional revolution."
The Regional Development 20x10 Policy, launched in 2024, seeks to build modern industrial plants in 20 cities and counties annually over the next 10 years, aiming to reduce the gap between urban and rural areas. This initiative reflects North Korea's push to address economic disparities.
Last week, Kim attended a similar groundbreaking event in South Hwanghae Province and has recently visited other construction sites nationwide, efforts seen as building public support ahead of an expected key party congress this month. These activities underscore Pyongyang's focus on regional development amid broader economic and political strategies.
