North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un has launched a sweeping North Korea purge of party and government officials after his recent China trip. The purge targets multiple sectors, including the workers’ party, military, and foreign ministry.
Immediately after returning from China, Kim ordered comprehensive “cadre inspections” led by the party’s organization and guidance department. These inspections evaluate whether department heads performed their duties diligently while Kim was abroad. Officials submit written reports and attend individual interviews during the review process.
The propaganda and agitation department faced the most dismissals during this North Korea purge. Specifically, officials who edited documentary footage of Kim’s visit received severe criticism. Observers said the footage appeared “meager and shabby” compared to Chinese media coverage. Including shots of Kim waiting in line with world leaders was deemed damaging to his image.
“Kim scolded them for failing to capture the ideological will of the party during his diplomatic efforts,” a source said. As a result, many workers in the Korean Central Television video editing department and propaganda department received suspensions or forced labor punishments.
Furthermore, the military and defense sector became a primary target. Officials from the munitions industry department, missile general bureau, and second economic committee faced dismissals or revolutionization sentences. Kim accelerated weapons development and military-technical cooperation with China after seeing advanced weaponry during the military parade. Consequently, the defense sector came under intense scrutiny.
Authorities agreed to cooperate with China on machinery parts and materials after Kim’s visit. However, related departments, including the munitions industry and missile general bureau, failed to submit proper working-level plans on time. Therefore, Kim imposed strict punishments.
The foreign ministry also experienced dismissals. Three officials, including a deputy director-level officer, lost their positions due to protocol failures during the China trip. Officials in other organizations faced similar evaluations, indicating that inspections continue comprehensively across North Korea.
Observers noted that this North Korea purge reflects Kim’s intent to enforce strict discipline and ensure all sectors implement policies effectively. The munitions industry faces additional pressure because of the upcoming evaluation of the five-year defense development plan.
Overall, Kim is sending a clear message. Through this North Korea purge, he aims to maintain control and ensure that party, military, and government officials fully execute their responsibilities.
