Kim Jong Un Attends Opening Of New Paper Mill In North Korea

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony and toured a newly opened paper mill in Unsan County, South Phyongan Province, as part of his regional development policy, state media KCNA reported. The Unsan mill represents one of the factories completed under Kim's initiative, launched in January 2024, to construct modern facilities in 20 cities and counties annually over 10 years to narrow living standard gaps between Pyongyang and rural areas. Kim described the project as a "model experience" for provinces to replicate, emphasizing a self-reliant "our-style papermaking method" using local raw materials and advanced technology development. The inauguration timing aligns with preparations for North Korea's ninth party congress in early 2026, showcasing policy accomplishments amid economic challenges. This development highlights the regime's push for industrial self-sufficiency in basic materials like paper, potentially impacting regional pulp and paper supply chains in Northeast Asia.​