Kim Jong Un Re-elected as North Korean Chairman of State Affairs

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been re-elected as Chairman of State Affairs, the highest position of power in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). The decision was made during the first session of the 15th Supreme People’s Assembly on March 22, according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) KCNA.

Unanimous Will of the Korean People

KCNA reported that Kim Jong Un’s re-election reflects “the unanimous will and desire of all the Korean people.” All 687 deputies of the new legislative assembly, including 108 women, participated in the election, which saw a reported 99.9% voter turnout on March 15 Reuters.

Key Appointments and Leadership

Alongside Kim Jong Un, Choe Son Hui was reappointed as Minister of Foreign Affairs, a position she has held since 2022 and Pak Thae Song was confirmed as Prime Minister Yahoo News. Kim Jong Un currently holds the positions of president of state affairs and general secretary of the Workers’ Party of Korea, the country’s ruling single party.

Historical Context and Dynastic Rule

North Korea was founded in 1948 by Kim Il-sung, Kim Jong Un’s grandfather. Kim Jong Un assumed leadership following the death of his father, Kim Jong-il, in late 2011, continuing the country’s communist dynastic rule. Kim Il-sung remains the “eternal president” of North Korea, despite his death in 1994.

Potential Constitutional Amendments

Analysts suggest that the current session of the Supreme People’s Assembly may consider constitutional amendments, potentially formalizing the relationship between North and South Korea as that of “two hostile states” Reuters.

Kim Yo Jong’s Rising Influence

Kim Jong Un relies on a close circle of advisors, including his sister, Kim Yo Jong, who was recently promoted to a department director within the Party Central Committee Yahoo News.