North Korea's first Workers' Party Congress in five years reflected the predicament of leader Kim Jong Un, now in his 10th year in power. In a bid to consolidate the regime, he assumed the post of general secretary, the same position held by his father and grandfather. He has also announced plans to increase the country's military capabilities and revive the economy through self-sufficiency measures, suggesting he is in danger of becoming reactionary and inward-looking.
The Nikkei View
Denuclearization in North Korea is the only way forward
Plan for self-sufficient development shows country is headed in wrong direction
There is no doubt that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s real intention is to meet with the new U.S. president. © Reuters
Read Next
Latest on The Nikkei View
