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Kim Jong-un demands 'perfection' in rebuilding flood-ravaged homes in North Korea

Published: 22 Oct. 2024, 10:38

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, center, gives ″field guidance″ to the flood-stricken regions of Jagang Province on Monday. [KOREAN CENTRAL NEWS AGENCY]

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has called for "perfection" in the reconstruction of homes in the flood-ravaged regions of the country's northwest, state media reported Tuesday.

Kim made the remarks during a "field guidance" visit to the flood-stricken regions of Jagang Province on Monday, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

In July, heavy rains caused widespread flooding along the Amnok River, affecting large areas in the North Phyongan, Jagang and Ryangang provinces. Thousands of homes were washed away, though North Korean state media has not provided information on human casualties.

This marked Kim's first visit to Jagang Province, which is believed to have suffered the most severe damage. Prior to this, Kim had visited North Phyongan Province twice for inspection.

During the visit Monday, Kim said, "The dwelling houses under construction for the flood victims, too, are precious assets of the state and the people that should be guaranteed forever, and therefore, it is necessary to overcome even the slightest shortcomings perfectly and direct greater efforts to ensure perfection."

He also said that the timeline for completing the housing project had been extended from early November to early December.

South Korea's unification ministry, which is responsible for inter-Korean relations, had previously speculated that Kim may have delayed visiting the Jagang region due to the severity of the damage, fearing that an early visit could have negative repercussions.

The KCNA also reported the party has decided to dispatch the chief and the political chief of the field headquarters to rehabilitate the flood-hit areas in Jagang Province.

The replacements are believed to be a response to Kim's earlier dissatisfaction with the quality of the construction work.

Yonhap