On April 15, 2025, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un attended a significant ceremony marking the completion of the third phase of the Hwasong district new town in Pyongyang. This event coincided with the 113th birthday of Kim Il-sung, the founding leader of North Korea, and was reported by the Korean Central News Agency the following day.
The Hwasong district project, initiated under Kim Jong-un's direction, aims to construct a total of 50,000 housing units over five years, with 10,000 units planned to be built annually in Pyongyang. The completion ceremony showcased the rapid progress made since construction began in February 2024, with many high-rise apartments already completed in a short time frame.
During the ceremony, Kim Jong-un cut the ribbon and was accompanied by his wife, Kim Ju-ae, as well as other senior officials, including Kim Tok-hun and Pak Tae-song. The event featured fireworks and moments of warmth, such as Kim Jong-un embracing prospective residents who will be moving into the new homes.
In his remarks, Kim expressed his commitment to the people, stating, "I am sorry that we are only now providing such modern housing," and emphasized his determination to undertake more work for the citizens upon witnessing their joy and excitement.
This display of benevolence is seen as a strategic move to bolster public loyalty and internal unity amid ongoing economic difficulties and military concerns regarding North Korea's military alliance with Russia. Analysts suggest that Kim's increased public engagements in the economic sector, which have occurred nine times this year, significantly surpass the average of 4.8 times during the same period from 2020 to 2024, reflect his desire to solidify his leadership.
Interestingly, this year marks the third consecutive occasion that Kim Jong-un did not visit the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun on Kim Il-sung's birthday, a significant site for commemorating the late leader. Instead, other high-ranking officials visited the palace, suggesting a potential shift in Kim's public image and a focus on presenting himself as a leader who prioritizes the welfare of the people.
Professor Chon De-jin from Wonju Hanra University noted, "Kim Jong-un is continuing the work of portraying himself as a people-loving leader while emulating his predecessors, and his actions to establish his own authority are expected to continue for the time being." This assertion highlights the ongoing efforts by Kim to carve out his identity as a leader distinct from his forebears.
In the broader context, North Korea is reportedly planning to expand Kim Il-sung Square to accommodate large-scale events, including military parades. A recent report by NK News cited a YouTuber who visited Pyongyang, revealing that North Korea intends to demolish nearby buildings to facilitate this expansion, which is expected to take place within the next five years.
However, immediate expansion work may be delayed due to upcoming significant events, including the 80th anniversary of the Workers' Party in October and the 9th Party Congress scheduled for early next year. The North Korean guide mentioned in the video indicated that the expansion is likely to proceed within five years, aligning with the regime's long-term planning.
As North Korea continues its ambitious housing projects, the government appears to be leveraging these developments to maintain regime stability and public support. The timing of the completion ceremony on Kim Il-sung's birthday is interpreted as an effort to maximize the event's significance, reinforcing the regime's image of progress and care for its citizens.
In conclusion, Kim Jong-un's attendance at the Hwasong district completion ceremony not only underscores the regime's ongoing housing initiatives but also reflects a strategic approach to governance, aiming to foster public loyalty and demonstrate commitment to the people's welfare amid challenging economic conditions.
