North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was re-elected as General Secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea on February 22, 2026, during the Ninth Party Congress held in Pyongyang . The congress, organized every five years, is one of the country’s most important political events, where national priorities and long-term strategies are outlined.

State media described the result as unanimous, calling it a reflection of the delegates’ “unshakable will” and unity . Such 100% outcomes are a familiar feature of North Korean politics, emphasizing loyalty and centralized authority. During the gathering, Kim highlighted continued progress in nuclear development while also promising efforts to strengthen economic self-reliance and improve living standards despite international sanctions .

Observers noted what appeared to be a generational shift within the leadership, as several senior officials were reportedly replaced by younger figures viewed as loyal to Kim . The congress reinforced the regime’s focus on unity, continuity, and firm control under the ruling leadership .