Kim Jong-un Participates in Ceremony for Reconstructed Homes in Flood-Devastated Region
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Seoul, Dec 22 (NationPress) North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has participated in a ceremony celebrating the completion of homes reconstructed following the July floods, highlighting improved disaster management and self-recovery, as reported by the state media on Sunday.
Recovery efforts have been ongoing in North Korea since late July when intense flooding affected vast regions along the Amnok River near its northern border, reportedly resulting in numerous fatalities and missing persons, according to the Yonhap news agency.
Kim has visited the flood-affected regions multiple times, with over 15,000 victims relocated to Pyongyang for shelter.
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Sunday that the North Korean leader attended a “magnificent” completion ceremony for the reconstructed homes in North Phyongan Province the day prior.
In his address at the ceremony, Kim expressed regret for the delays in reconstruction due to the cold weather at the year’s end.
He characterized the flood damage as a “man-made disaster,” blaming it on the country’s inadequate disaster prevention agencies and the negligence of workers, urging for self-reflection.
The North Korean leader also stressed the importance of self-reliance in recovery efforts, mentioning that “several countries and international organisations offered to provide assistance.”
However, he explained that confidence in their own capabilities and the spirit of self-sufficiency were more critical than any external aid.
Kim also indicated that new initiatives to reinforce embankments and establish greenhouse farms would commence in the impacted areas next year, while instructing improvements in construction skills and equipment.
