Kim Jong Un Orders Displaced North Koreans To Pyongyang

In this photo provided by the North Korean government, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un speaks as he visits an air force helicopter unit to praise the troops for helping rescue people from recent flood

North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Un, has announced that the country will not seek external assistance to recover from the recent floods that devastated areas near the border with China. Kim ordered officials to bring thousands of displaced residents to the capital, Pyongyang, to provide them with better care during the recovery process.

According to reports, it is estimated that it will take approximately two to three months to rebuild homes and stabilize the flood-affected regions. In the meantime, the government plans to accommodate around 15,400 individuals, including mothers, children, older adults, and disabled soldiers, in facilities in Pyongyang.

Kim made these statements during a visit to the northwestern town of Uiju, where he met with flood victims and discussed the ongoing recovery efforts. The visit was praised by the state media, highlighting Kim's leadership and dedication to serving the people.

The heavy rains in late July resulted in significant damage, with thousands of houses, agricultural fields, public buildings, structures, roads, and railways being flooded in the cities of Sinuiju and Uiju. While the exact number of casualties has not been disclosed, Kim criticized public officials for neglecting disaster prevention measures.

Rebuilding homes and stabilizing flood-affected regions estimated to take 2-3 months.

Kim Jong Un orders displaced residents to be brought to Pyongyang for better care.

Approximately 15,400 individuals to be accommodated in Pyongyang facilities during recovery.

Despite offers of assistance from countries like Russia and China, as well as international aid groups, North Korea has not expressed a desire to accept external help. Kim emphasized the importance of self-reliance in handling the recovery process and expressed gratitude for the offers of humanitarian support.

South Korea has also offered aid supplies, but given the current tensions between the two Koreas over nuclear ambitions and military exercises, it is unlikely that North Korea will accept the offer. Kim accused South Korea of exaggerating the flood damages and casualties, labeling it as a 'smear campaign' and a provocation against his government.

While some South Korean media reports suggest that the actual extent of the damages in North Korea may be more severe than reported, the North has stood firm on its rehabilitation plans and self-reliant approach to recovery.