North Korea Holds Key Workers’ Party Plenum, Plans Ninth Congress

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un presided over the 12th plenary meeting of the eighth Central Committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea, held from June 21 to 23, which reviewed the implementation of party and state policies for the year and discussed policy directions for the second half of 2025. The meeting focused on accelerating the revitalization and modernization of major industrial sectors and approved convening the Ninth Congress of the Workers' Party, describing it as a significant milestone, though no date was disclosed. Despite speculation, no messages targeting the United States or South Korea were issued during the meeting, even as President Donald Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung have shown conciliatory gestures toward North Korea. Kim delivered a speech at the meeting, but its contents were not made public, and state media provided only general praise for achievements without specific details. The plenary was noted for its secrecy, with North Korean media emphasizing successes and plans for economic development without elaboration. The event signals continued focus on internal policy and party consolidation amid ongoing regional diplomatic dynamics.