North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has inaugurated a new housing district in the capital for families of soldiers killed in overseas military operations, state media reported.
According to the official newspaper Rodong Sinmun, the new residential area named Saeppyol Street is intended to honour what the regime describes as “martyrs”. Kim reportedly described the project as a “source of honour” and a point of pride for the country.
Tribute amid overseas deployment
Though state media did not directly reference Russia, Kim last week pledged unconditional support to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s policies. Under a reported defence pact, Pyongyang is said to have dispatched thousands of troops to support Moscow in the war against Ukraine.
South Korea’s National Intelligence Service recently estimated that around 6,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded during deployment, though precise figures remain unverified.
Public ceremony and political timing
Images released by state-run Korean Central News Agency showed Kim attending the inauguration ceremony alongside his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, consoling bereaved families and touring the completed homes.
Kim stated he had sought to finish the project “even one day earlier” to provide comfort to the families of fallen soldiers.
The housing rollout follows recent ceremonies in Pyongyang honouring war dead, including the unveiling of memorial structures. Analysts suggest the move may be aimed at reinforcing domestic support ahead of an upcoming party congress later this month.
The development highlights Pyongyang’s increasing public acknowledgement of overseas military involvement while emphasising state recognition for affected families.