Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea and General Secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), conducted an inspection of regional-industry factories under construction in Jaeryong County, South Hwanghae Province, on November 14. The visit highlighted North Korea’s commitment to its regional development policy, with efforts aimed at enhancing local industries and improving citizens’ living standards.
Accompanying Kim Jong Un were senior officials, including Jo Yong Won, Kim Yong Su, Kim Yo Jong, and Pak Song Chol from the WPK Central Committee, as well as Pak Kwang Ju, a general officer in the Korean People's Army (KPA). They were welcomed by local authorities and KPA commanders overseeing the construction project.
The construction of these regional-industry factories forms part of the government’s ambitious plan to implement the “Regional Development 20×10 Policy.” This initiative aims to establish industrial facilities in 20 cities and counties annually over a decade, symbolizing what North Korea terms its “Korean-style civilization and prosperity.”
In Jaeryong County, significant progress has been made in building food and daily necessities factories. According to Kim Jong Un, the project demonstrates the commitment and ingenuity of the soldier-builders, who have worked diligently to meet the high standards set by the Party Central Committee.
During the inspection, Kim Jong Un underscored the importance of ensuring top-notch quality throughout the construction and equipment manufacturing processes. He advised against rushing to meet deadlines at the expense of quality and emphasized the need for precise installation and test-runs to ensure smooth, full-capacity operations once the factories open.
Additionally, he stressed the importance of preparing skilled workers and securing raw materials to normalize production. He highlighted that these factories should begin production immediately upon completion, making an immediate positive impact on the lives of regional residents.
Kim Jong Un reiterated that the construction of regional-industry factories is more than an economic initiative; it is a historic mission to fulfill long-held aspirations for regional development. By prioritizing the conscientious efforts of all involved, the factories aim to become beacons of progress and transformation, marking the start of what the government calls an “era of regional change.”
The soldiers involved in the construction pledged their unwavering loyalty to Kim Jong Un’s leadership and the WPK’s policies. They vowed to achieve the goals of the first year of the 10-year plan by working with dedication and patriotism, further strengthening their contribution to national prosperity and future generations.
This inspection highlights North Korea’s push for regional self-reliance and industrial growth amid ongoing economic challenges. By tying these developments to the Party’s long-term vision, the leadership seeks to inspire confidence in its policies and bolster its claims of advancing the nation’s prosperity.