North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has announced ambitious plans for large-scale construction projects across the country in 2026, including the simultaneous development of industrial factories in 20 regions, state media KCNA reported Thursday. The move comes as the country prepares for the Ninth Party Congress of the ruling Workers’ Party, expected to set major policy directions.
“We are now standing on the starting line of our gigantic struggle for another year, aimed at transforming the regions,” Kim said in a speech delivered on Jan. 29, according to KCNA.
The projects outlined by Kim include building public health facilities, leisure complexes, and regional industrial factories across 20 regions of North Korea. KCNA noted that this effort would transform nearly one-third of the country’s cities and counties, highlighting a significant push to modernize regional infrastructure and industrial capacity.
Kim emphasized that raising the regional standard of living is a key indicator of North Korea’s overall development. “Regional development and improved living conditions are the hallmark of our state’s progress,” he said.
The announcement coincides with preparations for the Ninth Party Congress, a major political event for North Korea, which has not yet announced an official date. At a conference of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party held on Jan. 28, delegates were elected to attend the Congress, KCNA reported.
North Korea has frequently used high-profile construction campaigns to signal economic ambition and national pride, even amid ongoing international sanctions and economic challenges. Analysts say the push could also serve as a showcase of Kim’s domestic policy achievements ahead of the party congress.
While details of the projects’ scale and funding were not provided, the announcement reflects Pyongyang’s continued focus on self-reliant economic development, infrastructure expansion, and improving public services.
Observers will be watching closely for further announcements from the party congress, which is expected to outline North Korea’s economic and military priorities.
