Tensions Surge as North Korea Shuts Down Peace Committees and Tourism Bureau

North Korea Disbands Key Organizations
Decision Made at Supreme People’s Assembly

North Korea has dissolved key organizations responsible for inter-Korean talks and exchanges: the Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of the Fatherland, the National Economic Cooperation Federation, and the Kumgangsan International Tourism Bureau. During the 10th session of the 14th Supreme People’s Assembly at the Mansudae Assembly Hall in Pyongyang on the 15th, officials reached this decision. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on it the following day.

During the meeting, it was decided to disband these organizations involved in inter-Korean dialogue, negotiations, and cooperation. A resolution was passed, indicating that “the cabinet and relevant agencies will devise practical measures to execute this resolution.” The decision argued that “achieving unification with the Republic of Korea, which has pursued ‘absorption unification’ and ‘system unification,’ fundamentally different from our nation’s unification path based on one nation, one state, and two systems over nearly 80 years, is impossible.” It further stated that “considering the Republic of Korea as a partner for reconciliation and unification is a grave historical mistake.”

Kim Jong Un’s Address at the Supreme People’s Assembly

In his policy address at the Supreme People’s Assembly, Kim Jong Un expressed, “We cannot pursue national revival and unification alongside South Korean compatriots who have intensified their sense of kinship amid worsening and arrogant confrontations.” He emphasized that “restructuring all related organizations, initially established as solidarity groups for peaceful unification, is a necessary and inevitable process to address our new stance on inter-Korean relations and unification policy.”

The meeting also discussed last year’s budget settlement and this year’s budget planning. This year’s expenditure increased by 3.4% compared to the previous year, with 44.5% allocated for economic development and improving citizens’ lives. The defense budget remained unchanged at 15.9%, consistent with the previous year.

Prioritizing Improvements in People’s Lives

Kim Jong Un stressed the urgency of improving the people’s lives, declaring it the most important task for the party and the government. He further elaborated that the primary focus in enhancing citizens’ lives is reducing the disparities between the capital and the provinces and addressing regional imbalances.

The Presidium of the Supreme People’s Assembly included Kim Jong Un, Prime Minister Kim Tok Hun, the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People’s Assembly, Choe Ryong Hae, and the Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission of the Workers’ Party Ri Pyong Chol.