North Korea Ninth Party Congress: Kim Jong Un’s Five-Year Strategy and Military Showcase

The North Korea Ninth Party Congress will convene in late February. This major political event will show Kim Jong Un’s domestic and foreign policy agenda over the next five years. It will also display military developments and potential succession plans.

Kim Jong Un Showcases Achievements Ahead of Congress

Kim Jong Un has toured military and economic facilities across the country. He visited cruise missile launch sites and large-scale greenhouse farms. These tours highlight his achievements in defense and economic sectors.

The congress will evaluate the current development plan and outline priorities for the next five years. At the 2021 congress, Kim admitted the previous economic plan failed in almost every sector. He called for stronger investment in heavy industries, agriculture, and light industry to increase consumer goods production.

Succession Plans and ‘President’ Title

South Korean lawmakers and intelligence officials say Kim may be preparing his teenage daughter, reportedly Kim Ju Ae, for leadership. Analysts are monitoring whether she attends the congress and whether she receives any official title.

The congress could also revive the title of “president” for Kim, a designation historically tied to his grandfather, Kim Il Sung. If Ju Ae succeeds her father, the Kim dynasty would extend into a fourth generation.

Military Parade and Nuclear Ambitions

North Korea plans a major military parade during the congress. It will display its growing nuclear and conventional capabilities.

Analysts say recent U.S. actions, including the raid on Venezuela, reinforce Pyongyang’s focus on nuclear deterrence. Kim aims to advance nuclear submarines and may test a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile, like the Hwasong-20. Pyongyang will likely highlight strategic ties with Russia to support anti-U.S. messaging.

Messaging to Seoul and Washington

The North Korea Ninth Party Congress will also convey foreign-policy messages. Kim has called South Korea a “hostile” nation and rejected outreach from President Lee Jae Myung.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed interest in resuming summit talks. Analysts are divided on whether Pyongyang will engage or use the congress to show strength. Some expect limited contact to avoid provoking the U.S., while others believe Kim will appear firm and unyielding.