Healthcare revolution has become the focus of North Korea’s leadership as Kim Jong-un ordered a sweeping upgrade to the nation’s medical infrastructure. His latest remarks followed an inspection of a nearly completed hospital near Pyongyang, underscoring his push to prioritize citizens’ well-being.
According to state media, Kim visited Kangdong County Hospital on Thursday. During the visit, he directed officials to install all necessary medical equipment by next month. He emphasized that improving healthcare access must remain a central state priority.
The healthcare revolution marks one of Kim’s most ambitious social policies in years. He pledged to build modern hospitals in 20 cities and counties every year. The plan aims to modernize the public health system and strengthen the nation’s medical workforce. Kim urged officials to take decisive measures to expand staff training and ensure consistent facility development.
The inspection came on the same day U.S. President Donald Trump departed South Korea after attending the APEC summit. Trump met with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Chinese President Xi Jinping during the event. While Trump publicly invited Kim to meet him, North Korea has not responded to the proposal.
This hospital visit was Kim’s first reported public appearance in a week. His last appearance was at a cemetery for Chinese soldiers who fought in the Korean War. The timing of his new message suggested a deliberate effort to shift public focus to domestic stability and social improvement.
Kim described protecting lives and improving health as “the most important state affairs.” He called for continued expansion of the healthcare revolution through systematic modernization. He also directed the ruling party’s Central Committee to discuss healthcare policies during its next plenary meeting.
Government ministries are expected to allocate additional funding to the initiative. The Ministry of Public Health plans to strengthen disease prevention programs and invest in medical research. Local authorities have also begun reviewing potential hospital sites in smaller provinces.
Analysts believe the healthcare revolution serves both a public and political purpose. By highlighting domestic welfare, Kim aims to reinforce national unity amid international sanctions and economic pressure. The coming months will show whether the ambitious plan can translate into real improvements for ordinary citizens.
