North Korea’s state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim Yo Jong, sister of leader Kim Jong Un, has been formally appointed as a Department Head within the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) during its 9th Party Congress.
The appointment follows the first plenary meeting of the 9th Central Committee and marks her official promotion from Vice Department Director to a full department chief role.

Although Kim Yo Jong has long been regarded as a close adviser to Kim Jong Un and a key figure in shaping North Korea’s foreign policy messaging, the new title further solidifies her standing within the party hierarchy.

Analysts view the move as reinforcing the Kim family’s grip on state power and potentially signaling preparations for heightened diplomatic or security tensions, particularly in relations with the United States and regional allies.

Kim Yo Jong has frequently served as one of Pyongyang’s most outspoken voices on inter-Korean affairs and U.S. policy.