Economics
Kim Jong Un Champions Nuclear Arms at North Korean Congress
- Ruler opts for a Western-style suit over the usual Mao outfit
- `Thrilling explosion' of nuclear bomb called a prelude
North Korean Leader Readies His Political Coronation
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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un touted the success of his country’s nuclear program in a speech opening the first congress of the ruling party since 1980, while also asserting the country is making economic progress under his rule.
Repeatedly interrupted by frenetic applause and shouts of "hurrah," Kim said that the ruling Workers’ Party had become “invincible and strong,” in a speech to the gathering in Pyongyang that deviated little from past rhetoric about North Korea’s might. Most surprising may have been his outfit: a dark Western-style suit and tie, rather than the Mao suits he’s worn in most public appearances.