Kim Jong Un Demotes Officials Over 'Irresponsible' Construction of North Korean Utopia

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has demoted several senior officials for mishandling construction at Samjiyon, a new town envisioned as a 'socialist utopia.' Kim criticized poor construction work and financial losses, singling out some officials and calling for a formal investigation into their neglect of duties.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has demoted or suspended several senior officials for their 'irresponsible' oversight of his flagship project to develop a new town in the country's north, state media KCNA reported on Sunday.

During a visit to Samjiyon, Kim announced his decision, highlighting various deficiencies in the construction of a so-called 'socialist utopia.' Praising builders for their achievements, he criticized senior officials for causing 'serious deviations,' including substandard construction and financial mismanagement.

Specifically targeting Ri Sun Chol, the minister of state construction control, Kim branded him a 'good-for-nothing person' and called for an investigation. Other officials faced suspensions, demotions, and threats of reevaluation over their neglect.

(With inputs from agencies.)