North Korea has not yet revealed the timing of its upcoming party congress, the first in five years, leading to speculation in Seoul that it might occur next month.
Last month, the country held a plenary meeting of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea to prepare for the congress, where long-term policy directions for the economy and foreign affairs are anticipated to be outlined.
The outcomes of this congress, the highest decision-making body in North Korea, will shape the nation’s major policies for the next five years, as per Yonhap News Agency.
Although South Korea’s National Intelligence Service and officials suggest the event could occur in early February, the exact schedule remains uncertain due to the absence of coverage in North Korean media.
In previous instances, North Korean media announced the commencement of party congresses just days before they started.
For instance, the seventh congress in 2016 was announced nine days prior, while the eighth congress in 2021 was revealed about a week ahead.
Before the 2016 and 2021 congresses, North Korea also reported on preliminary procedures, like electing regional representatives, hinting indirectly at the upcoming congresses.
If the ninth congress does happen in early February as anticipated, North Korea is likely to disclose preparatory steps soon, such as a Politburo meeting to set the congress schedule or selecting representatives to attend.
Leading up to the congress, North Korea has been enforcing discipline among officials and highlighting achievements from the party’s economic plans.
During a recent public appearance at a machinery plant, leader Kim Jong-un removed the vice premier overseeing the machinery industry, citing “irresponsibility.” He has also been actively inspecting and launching construction projects under his regional development policy.
