SEOUL, Sept. 30 (Yonhap) – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for the quick rebuilding of homes in flood-hit areas in the northwestern part of the country, state media reported Monday.
Kim made the remarks on Sunday during a “field guidance” visit to flood-hit areas in North Pyongan Province, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
Heavy rains in late July flooded a wide area along the Yalu River, and some South Korean media outlets estimate that the number of dead or missing could exceed 1,000.
During this visit, Mr. Kim said, “In order to provide homes in flood-hit areas where they can live happily, each construction company has worked harder than ever before to complete the construction of housing of the highest quality in a short period of time. I have to let it happen,” he said.
Kim reiterated that construction quality is not just a matter of dealing with the effects of natural disasters, but is an important process in implementing the party’s broader regional development plans.
North Korea has prioritized economic development in underdeveloped regions, following Kim’s pledge to modernize factories in 20 counties over the next 10 years. The country’s “20-10 Regional Development Policy” is aimed at improving what the administration calls the basic material and cultural living standards of its people.
On September 29, 2024, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (C) provides “on-site guidance” in flood-stricken areas of North Pyongan Province. This photo was released by North Korea’s state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) the following day. . (Can only be used within the Republic of Korea. Cannot be redistributed) (Yonhap News)
khj@yna.co.kr
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