Kim Jong-Un on flood relief

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has declared that the country will not seek international aid to recover from severe flooding in areas near its border with China, emphasizing a focus on self-reliance. During a recent two-day visit to the flood-impacted Uiju County, Kim ordered the relocation of approximately 15,400 people to Pyongyang for temporary care while recovery efforts are underway. He estimated that rebuilding efforts could take two to three months, affecting thousands of homes and agricultural land in Sinuiju and Uiju County. Despite offers of assistance from Russia, China, and international organizations, Kim expressed a preference for North Korea to manage its crisis independently. The state media praised Kim's leadership while criticizing South Korea for allegedly exaggerating the disaster's impact. Kim has indicated that the government will reassess the need for foreign aid if the situation becomes dire.