Kim Jong Un, on Friday, called for efforts to minimize typhoon damage to crops as the UN accused North Korea of letting its people go hungry as it devotes more resources to developing its nuclear weapons program.
What Happened: The North Korean dictator has urged efforts to decrease crop damage caused by the recent Typhoon Khanun. Kim has also ordered mobilization of helicopters and aircraft for recovery work in the flood-impacted areas, Yonhap News Agency reported.
Kim’s call came during his visit to farms in Anbyon County, Kangwon Province, where heavy typhoon rain caused significant flooding.
During Kim’s visit, helicopters and light transport aircraft from the country’s air force were deployed to spray pesticides in the flooded fields. This move attempts to portray Kim as a caring leader amid the country’s worsening economic conditions.
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Kim also urged officials to meet this year’s grain production goals and to cultivate crops scientifically to ensure a good harvest nationwide, as per state-owned media, KCNA.
Why It Matters: This move by Kim comes amid escalating tensions and worsening economic conditions in North Korea. UN human rights chief Volker Turk, on Thursday, criticized North Korea for prioritizing the expansion of its military programs over the welfare of its people, according to Al Jazeera.
Meanwhile, earlier this week, Kim had expressed dissatisfaction with local authorities for their lackluster response to the typhoon damage. In the wake of Typhoon Khanun, Kim slammed officials for their “irresponsible” and “insensitive” approach, which led to significant damage in the region.
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