Seoul, South Korea – North Korean state media has yet to report on the Supreme People’s Assembly (SPA) meeting that was scheduled to convene on January 22nd, according to a report by South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency. This silence is fueling speculation about the meeting’s agenda and potential outcomes, particularly regarding North Korea’s stance on international relations.
The SPA Presidium announced on December 5th that the 14th SPA would hold its 12th session on January 22nd. Typically, North Korean media outlets, including the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) and the Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the Workers’ Party of Korea, promptly report on significant events the following morning. However, as of 7:00 AM on January 23rd, no such reports had been released.
This delay suggests several possibilities. The SPA meeting may be continuing into a second day. Historically, SPA sessions often last one to two days, with state media coverage typically following the conclusion of all agenda items. Another possibility is a postponement. A similar situation occurred in April 2020, when the 14th SPA’s third session was delayed by two days.
The international community is closely watching this SPA meeting, especially in light of the recent inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump. Observers are keen to see if North Korean leader Kim Jong-un will use the platform to send any signals regarding the country’s policy towards the United States. The lack of immediate reporting from North Korean media adds an element of suspense to the situation, leaving analysts to speculate on the potential direction of North Korea’s foreign policy.
The SPA is North Korea’s highest legislative body, although it largely serves to rubber-stamp decisions made by the ruling Workers’ Party. Key agenda items often include budget approvals, personnel appointments, and amendments to laws. However, the SPA can also be used as a platform to deliver significant policy statements.
The continued silence from North Korean media outlets warrants close monitoring, as it could indicate a shift in strategy or a significant announcement pending from Pyongyang.
References:
- Yonhap News Agency. (2025, January 23). 朝媒暂未报道最高人民会议消息 [North Korean Media Yet to Report on Supreme People’s Assembly Meeting]. Retrieved from [Insert original URL here if available, otherwise omit].
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