Title: Kim Jong-un’s Contradictory Approach to Construction: Balancing Speed and Quality
SEOUL, September 2nd – In a recent visit to a construction site in South Hamgyong Province, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has been reported to emphasize the importance of quality over speed in construction projects, while simultaneously setting a tight deadline for the completion of local hospital projects within the year. This dual approach appears to be contradictory, raising questions about the feasibility of his directives.
According to the Yonhap News Agency, Kim highlighted the reduce speed, enhance quality principle during his visit to the construction site of a local factory in Hamju County on August 31st. He stated that quality is the foundation of construction work and that neglecting it in favor of speed is detrimental to the party’s policies on local development.
Even the smallest oversight in quality can act as a poison to our party’s local construction policies, Kim was quoted as saying. He also stressed the need to provide satisfactory working conditions and hygienic living quarters for the soldiers involved in the construction projects.
However, in the same breath, Kim expressed his desire to see the completion of modern healthcare facilities across the country, especially in cities and counties, by the end of this year. He described this as one of his long-cherished goals, noting that no matter how difficult the task, it must be included in the local development 20×10 policy and completed without conditions.
The contradiction arises from Kim’s simultaneous demand for high-quality work and his insistence on a rapid completion timeline. With only four months left in the year, critics argue that his expectations may be unrealistic, especially given the stringent quality standards he has set.
During his visit, Kim also presided over a local development work meeting, where he reaffirmed the importance of constructing advanced healthcare facilities, science and technology dissemination centers, and food management facilities as part of the three major construction tasks. He stated that these initiatives are crucial for the well-being of the local population and that their completion is a top priority.
Despite his emphasis on quality, the tight deadline for the hospital projects suggests that speed may be prioritized in practice. This has led to concerns about whether the projects can be completed to the high standards Kim demands within the given timeframe.
The construction of healthcare facilities is a significant issue in North Korea, where access to quality medical care is limited. The urgency of Kim’s directive reflects the dire need for improved healthcare infrastructure in the country. However, the feasibility of achieving this goal within such a short period remains to be seen.
The situation is further complicated by the international sanctions imposed on North Korea, which can affect the availability of resources and expertise needed for large-scale construction projects. The North Korean regime’s ability to mobilize resources and labor efficiently is also a factor that could impact the successful completion of these projects.
In conclusion, Kim Jong-un’s approach to construction projects appears to be inherently contradictory, emphasizing both speed and quality. While his intentions to improve healthcare facilities are commendable, the tight deadline and the emphasis on quality raise questions about the practicality of his directives. The North Korean leader’s ability to reconcile these conflicting demands will be a key factor in the success or failure of these much-needed projects.
Note: This article is based on the information provided by the Yonhap News Agency and does not reflect the views or opinions of the author or any affiliated organizations.
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