North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has publicly lambasted officials for extensive delays in constructing a crucial educational equipment factory, highlighting systemic inefficiencies within the isolated state’s development efforts.
During an inspection in Pyongyang on November 4, Kim expressed profound dissatisfaction, criticizing cabinet and education ministry officials for failing to advance the project for five years. The ruling Workers’ Party had long emphasized the importance of strengthening educational material foundations.
Despite these directives, construction on the stationery and educational equipment factory only genuinely began in mid-2025. Kim attributed the severe delays to “improper attitudes and mindsets” among the responsible officials.
He ordered that this significant failure be addressed and discussed seriously at an upcoming Workers’ Party meeting scheduled for next month. Kim also set a strict deadline for the factory’s completion by the end of 2025, with production expected to commence in the first half of 2026.
The facility is intended to supply educational materials nationwide. Kim instructed relevant agencies to ensure product quality is appropriate for students’ age and physical development. He also commended soldiers who had been mobilized to assist with the construction work.
This initiative is part of North Korea’s broader strategy to enhance its national education system. The push for such domestic development projects continues as the country navigates persistent economic challenges and international sanctions.
The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Kim’s inspection and remarks on November 5, 2025.