20.01.2026 15:02
North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, during a factory inspection, stated that "the modernization project has faced difficulties due to irresponsible, rude, and inadequate managers," and removed Deputy Prime Minister Yang Sung Ho, whom he held responsible.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un inspected the "Ryongsong Machine Complex" factory and received information from officials about the modernization project, the first phase of which has been completed.
According to a statement from the North Korean administration, during a speech here, Kim thanked the workers and engineers involved in the modernization efforts and the machine production processes at the factory for their dedicated work. Emphasizing that the important aspect of this project is not just the modernization of a factory, but also the approach and preparedness of high-ranking officials towards the decisions of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), Kim stated, "A heavy blow must be dealt to the entrenched irresponsibility and individual protectionism that hinder progress."
IRRESPONSIBILITY ACCUSATIONS AGAINST HIGH-RANKING OFFICIALS
Kim criticized the current economic management teams for being inadequate in technologically developing the country's industry, stating, "Due to irresponsible, rude, and inadequate managers, the modernization project has faced difficulties, unnecessary human resource complications have occurred, and significant economic losses have arisen." Highlighting that breaking free from the understanding of defeat, irresponsibility, and passivity is a prerequisite for development, Kim announced that he has dismissed Deputy Prime Minister Yang Sung Ho for this reason.
HARSH MESSAGE FROM KIM TO BUREAUCRACY
Experts noted that the modernization project was announced by Kim Jong-un at the 8th Congress of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea, interpreting the dismissal decision as a strong warning against the inadequacies in bureaucratic ranks. It was also stated that Kim aims to increase loyalty towards himself through this means.