North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has publicly dismissed a senior government official, blaming him for significant failures in a major industrial project. The move is seen as an effort to tighten discipline ahead of a crucial ruling party congress.
A Public Dismissal and a Colourful Insult
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim Jong-un removed Yang Sung-ho, a vice-premier overseeing the machine-building industry. The dismissal followed an inspection of the Ryongsong Machine Complex in South Hamgyong province, where the first phase of a modernisation plan was completed.
Kim blamed Yang for causing "unnecessary man-made confusion" and resulting in "not a small amount of economic loss." In a speech, Kim used a vivid analogy to criticise Yang's performance, stating he was "like a goat yoked to pull an ox cart." Kim questioned, "Could we expect a goat to pull a cart for an ox?" and framed the incident as a mistake in personnel appointment.
Timing Ahead of Major Political Gathering
The public scolding coincides with preparations for the Workers' Party congress, the first in five years. This major political event is a propaganda spectacle used to review projects, set new priorities, and reshuffle officials. Analysts suggest Kim's action aims to create tension among senior officials and pressure them for better results before the congress, which South Korea's spy service expects to open in late January or February.
Experts, however, argue the factory's troubles stem from deeper systemic issues. Moon Seong-mook of the Korea Research Institute for National Strategy said Kim has "mismanaged the economy" by prioritising nuclear and missile programmes, and is now passing blame to subordinates. North Korea's economy, which suffered during the pandemic, saw 3.7% growth in 2024, but observers note structural problems and international sanctions hinder rapid development.
Broader Economic and Diplomatic Context
Analyst Kwak Gil-sup noted that any economic growth largely benefits the ruling elite and weapons sector, not the general public, deepening inequality. The upcoming congress is expected to reinforce policies of cooperation with allies like Russia and China to spur gradual economic development.
Outside observers are also watching to see if Kim will signal a restart of diplomacy with the United States, especially with a potential Trump visit to Beijing in April. Furthermore, Moon suggested Kim may use the congress to formally cement his policy of simultaneously advancing nuclear and conventional weapons programmes.
