'North Korea's Kim Jong-Un executes 30 officials after flood devastation'
North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un reportedly ordered the execution of 30 government officials last month, holding them responsible for failing to prevent catastrophic floods. The Chagang Province was severely affected by heavy rains and floods in July, resulting in over 1,000 fatalities and widespread displacement. South Korean media estimates indicate that the disaster also led to the destruction of more than 4,100 houses and approximately 7,410 acres of agricultural land.
Kim directs strict action against negligent officials
South Korea's Chosun TV, citing a North Korean official, reported that Kim demanded "strict punishment" for those accountable for the "unacceptable loss." The report stated that 20 to 30 officials from the flood-affected areas were executed. "It has been determined that 20 to 30 cadres in the flood-stricken area were executed at the same time late last month," said the official.
Investigation into official also initiated
The North Korean Central News Agency reported that Kim directed authorities in an emergency Politburo meeting to "strictly punish" those who neglected their responsibilities for disaster prevention, causing "even the casualty that cannot be allowed." An investigation into Chagang Province Party Secretary Kang Bong-hoon's actions was also initiated. Kang had accompanied Kim to several flood sites for inspection. Former North Korean diplomat Lee Il-gyu said the meeting left provincial officials "so anxious...they don't know when their necks will fall off."
North Korea's history of executions for alleged failures
Kim's order to execute officials for their alleged failures is not unprecedented. In 2019, he ordered the execution of his nuclear envoy Kim Hyok Chol for failing to arrange a summit with then-United States President Donald Trump. The report also mentioned that several officials were charged with corruption and dereliction of duty. A former North Korean diplomat was quoted as saying, "Even though there was recent flood damage, they were dismissed for social security reasons."
