North Korea's party congress cements Kim Jong-un's leadership

For the first time in 36 years, North Korea is holding a congress of its ruling Korea Workers’ Party.  

The congress was held in the April 25 House of Culture, which was decorated with the red and yellow flag of the ruling party, which shows the hammer, sickle and pen.

Journalists, including from CBC News, were given ​access to the venue.

The head of parliament announced the names of the party’s top brass, including Kim Jong-un, who has the new title of party chairman. Dozens of buses brought in some 3,400 delegates elected from around the country to attend the congress. 

The last time a congress was held, Kim Jong-un had not yet been born. 

Three women stood in a reception-like area inside the venue.

Portraits of Kim’s father and grandfather feature prominently.

Kim’s appearances at the choreographed ruling party congress this weekend set him apart from his father, Kim Jong-il, who never held a congress during in his 17 years in power. His grandfather Kim Il-sung ruled North Korea for 46 years.

Announcements at the congress included an early plan to improve the lives of North Koreans, while continuing to spend money on nuclear weapons. 

As Kim Jong-un walked in, the delegates stood up to applaud, shouting ‘Mansae!‘ or long life. 

In a boost to his hold on power, Kim was given the title of party chairman, a significant moment in the authoritarian country’s history.

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