Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, stated that the military will play a very important role over the next five years, as he joined celebrations marking the 78th anniversary of the founding of the Korean People's Army, which occurs ahead of the Workers' Party congress at the end of this month.
On 9 February 2026, South Korea's Yonhap News Agency reported that Kim Jong Un, North Korea's supreme leader, said the Korean People's Army will have a prominent role during the next five years. He made these remarks during a visit to the Ministry of Defense on the occasion of the 78th anniversary of the army's founding.
The report stated that the North Korean leader visited the Ministry of Defense last Sunday to extend congratulations on the army's founding anniversary. This visit took place ahead of the 9th Workers' Party Congress scheduled for late February, where many expect Kim to announce key policy directions in military, diplomatic, and economic sectors for the upcoming five years. Additionally, it is anticipated that the leader will unveil a new five-year plan to develop military capabilities.
Kim Jong Un also assessed that the military has faced unprecedented challenges and achieved outstanding results last year. He noted that this year will be one of significant change, with military missions expanding and requiring greater efforts.
However, in his latest speech, Kim did not criticize South Korea or the United States, a departure from his previous stance amid ongoing fragile international security tensions. Last year, he reaffirmed his position on strengthening nuclear capabilities and accused the U.S. of being behind global conflicts.
On the same occasion, Kim and senior North Korean military leaders also laid flowers at Kumsusan Palace, the mausoleum housing the remains of former leaders Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il.
Source: Yonhap