Kim Jong Un Pledges to Build ‘Affluent Socialist Paradise’ as North Korea Marks Party’s 80th Anniversary

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has vowed to transform his country into an “affluent socialist paradise” as part of celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea.

During a grand ceremony held at Pyongyang’s May Day Stadium on Thursday, Kim delivered a speech reaffirming his commitment to national prosperity despite global sanctions and external pressures. State media reported that the event was attended by foreign dignitaries, party members, and large crowds representing various social groups.

Reflecting on the party’s history, Kim highlighted the country’s long-standing struggle to balance economic growth with nuclear weapons development, describing both as vital measures for national defense amid what he called “persistent threats and interference” from foreign powers.

“There has been no nation in history that has faced such immense challenges while pursuing defense and development,” Kim said, pledging through the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) to make North Korea “a more affluent and beautiful land—the best socialist paradise in the world.”

The festivities featured fireworks, mass games, and cultural performances typical of major state events. Among the international guests were Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev, and Vietnamese Communist Party leader To Lam—signaling Pyongyang’s continued diplomatic alignment with its traditional allies amid ongoing tensions with the West.