PYONGYANG — North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has declined international aid offers for flood recovery, opting instead to relocate thousands of affected residents to Pyongyang for direct state support, as reported by state media on Saturday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, during a recent visit to the flood-damaged Uiju County in North Pyongan Province, Kim announced plans to transport approximately 15,400 vulnerable individuals—including children, the elderly, disabled soldiers, and mothers—from the affected regions of North Pyongan, Jagang, and Ryanggang provinces to the capital. This relocation is intended to last two to three months, during which time their homes will be reconstructed and repaired. Kim emphasized the importance of childcare, education, and moral edification, even in emergency situations.
This move follows Kim's previous tours of flood-stricken areas and comes amid his sharp criticism of South Korean media, which he accused of fabricating the extent of the damage and spreading politically motivated propaganda. Despite acknowledging the international community's offers of assistance, including from the South Korean Red Cross, UNICEF, Russia, and China, Kim reiterated his commitment to self-reliance, stating that the best approach in all state affairs is to solve problems through internal efforts and trust in the people.