North Korea's ruling party will hold its 9th congress at the end of February 2026, marking its first since 2021, where plans to strengthen nuclear deterrence will be discussed.
North Korea has announced that the 9th Congress of the Workers' Party will take place at the end of February 2026, as reported by the state news agency KCNA. This congress, the first since 2021, is expected to be significant in outlining the country's military and nuclear objectives. The Politburo of the Central Committee unanimously approved the decision, emphasizing the importance of this political gathering in the context of ongoing international tensions.
In a related development, Kim Jong Un indicated that the congress will clarify the country's plans for enhancing its nuclear deterrence capabilities. North Korea has been increasing its military capabilities over the years, with its first nuclear test conducted in 2006. The regime claims that its nuclear arsenal serves as a crucial deterrent against perceived threats from the United States and its allies, a stance that has been maintained even in the face of heavy international sanctions that have sought to curb its military ambitions.
The upcoming congress is likely to further cement North Korea's focus on maintaining and potentially expanding its nuclear deterrent strategy, despite the international pressures it faces. This development could have significant implications for regional security in East Asia, as neighboring countries and the international community will be watching closely to understand how North Korea plans to navigate its military ambitions in the current geopolitical climate.
